Today I’m continuing my coverage of the 2026 Tribeza Interiors Tour, which showcased the work of interior designers in private homes across Austin. Here in Part 2, I’ll show you what caught my eye in three different houses.
Bambi A’Lynn Interior Design – Avenue D
“Bambi A’Lynn Bratton…draws inspiration from classic books, international fashion, period films and the natural world, blending styles to craft rooms that feel welcoming and deeply personal. Her Interiors Tour home reflects that vision. The original 640-square-foot 1916 Sears kit house was renovated into offices and seamlessly connected a custom 2,400-square-foot residence built with Watermark Homes by David Bratton and Dianne Kett. The addition preserves the charm of the original home, forming a warm, timeless retreat that feels as if it has always been there.”
Bambi’s home and office feel airy and feminine with pastels and plenty of white. An old telephone niche in the office hallway is charming with sage-green paint and flower-bouquet wallpaper.
The office bathroom features a marble sink and pale-pink floral wallpaper.
In the main house, an upstairs bedroom is cozy with layered bedding, books, decorative plates, and an original painting depicting the owner and her sister when they were children.
Upstairs bathroom with pinch-pleated cafe curtains
Ribbon trim detail
A cottagey bouquet in the kitchen
+++++++++++++
Kim Lewis Designs – Lafayette Ave
“[Kim] Lewis presents a remodeled East Austin Craftsman completed with Friedman General Contracting. The renovation reimagines the front parlor, kitchen, dining area, mudroom and powder room. The parlor features burgundy walls, unglazed zellige tile and herringbone wood floors, while a chartreuse lacquer island with brass inlay anchors the newly opened, skylit kitchen. Custom dining pieces, a patterned mudroom and artwork by homeowner Greg Rainford reflect the lively, creative spirit of the couple who call the house home.”
This home features a moody front parlor with a focal-point tile fireplace.
A framed Pretenders poster draws the eye to a record-player console.
A bathroom with cobalt paneling and avocado-green floor tile gives 70s vibes.
Abstract wallpaper adds energy and moody tones.
+++++++++++++
Moontower Design-Build – Barton Hills
“Moontower showcases its Barton Hills project, a reimagined 1960s ranch transformed into a modern family home with a soaring screened porch that serves as a generous outdoor room and a detached guest casita. Vaulted ceilings, skylights, saturated colors and handmade tile bring personality to the interiors, while wood, plaster and terra cotta ground the home in warmth and a desert-inspired palette.”
The Moontower house leans western with cowboy mantel art, clean white walls, and wood-paneled ceiling.
The kitchen dining nook looks cozy and comfortable, with pinch-pleat cafe curtains to filter the light.
The primary bathroom has an arched shower opening and fabulous tile in shades of gray and robin’s-egg blue.
The shower is brightened with a skylight.
A sitting room is warmed up with cranberry cabinetry and bookshelves.
Up next: Part 3 of my Tribeza Interiors Tour recap. For a look back at Part 1, click here.
Heading to Temple
A quick note to say on Saturday I’m heading to Temple to speak at the Spring Garden Forum by the Bell County Master Gardener Association. I’ll be the first speaker of the day, talking about the resilient, Texas-tough gardens featured in Gardens of Texas. I’ll have books for sale and signing before and after the talk. If you’re in the area, I hope you’ll join me!
March 7, 9:45 to 10:45 am – Temple
The Spring Garden Forum is a one-day gathering for people who garden in Central Texas. The forum brings together experienced, well-respected speakers to talk about the things we’re all dealing with here: weather extremes, soil health, native plants, and how gardens fit into the larger ecosystem around us. The focus is on practical ideas, shared experience, and thoughtful discussion, all rooted in our local conditions. Cost: $45 for the day-long event with 4 speakers, including lunch. Register here.
I welcome your comments. Please scroll to the end of this post to leave one. If you’re reading in an email, click here to visit Digging and find the comment box at the end of each post. And hey, did someone forward this email to you, and you want to subscribe? Click here to get Digging delivered directly to your inbox!
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Digging Deeper
My new book, Gardens of Texas: Visions of Resilience from the Lone Star State, is here! Find it on Amazon, other online book sellers, and in stores everywhere. It’s for anyone who loves gardens or the natural beauty of Texas. More info here.
Learn about garden design and ecology at Garden Spark! I organize in-person talks by designers, landscape architects, authors, and gardeners a few times a year in Austin. Subscribe to Garden Spark by clicking here to email — subject line: SUBSCRIBE.
Let’s be honest: Sometimes, the only thing stopping you from eating a nutritious meal is the time and effort it takes to cook it. So, when time is scarce and the willpower to chop a vegetable is nonexistent, a frozen meal is an essential backup plan.
And we have good news! The frozen food aisle has evolved. Whether you’re searching for low calorie frozen meals for lighter nights or low sodium frozen meals that fit into your routine, smart options are easier to find than ever.
That’s why our dietitians analyzed the nutrition labels of popular frozen meals, paying close attention to protein, fiber, sodium, and saturated fat to find options that deliver balanced nutrition. Here we go!
Burrito bowls are a freezer aisle favorite for good reason. They pack multiple food groups into one container and work well for nights when you want filling, balanced frozen meals without cooking from scratch.
“I love that this frozen meal combines lean protein, whole grains and vegetables—serving up a more balanced meal containing protein and fiber. Plus, it contains micronutrients like calcium, potassium and a small amount of iron,” says Melissa Jaeger, RD, LD, MyFitnessPal Head of Nutrition. (2)
Pro pairing tips: If you’re looking to boost the fiber and protein, consider topping with drained and rinsed no-salt-added canned beans. (3)
Sometimes you just want comfort, and a butter chicken frozen meal does the job. This one keeps the flavor you want and the protein you need.
“This is a great choice as it is packed with protein, and a good source of fiber, iron and potassium. The sodium is relatively low for a frozen meal; it has only 1g of added sugars and contains simple ingredients. A win-win!” says Brookell White,RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (5)
Pro pairing tips: “Try boosting the fiber further with any cooked veggies you have on hand or a slice of whole grain bread. (6,7) You can also add canned and rinsed no-salt-added chickpeas for a larger dose of protein and fiber,” says White. (8,9)
This Korean BBQ chicken brings bold flavor to the table.
“This is a well-rounded, balanced meal providing carbs, protein and fat. It is also a good source of micronutrients like iron, potassium and vitamin A,” says Emily Sullivan, RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (10)
Pro pairing tips: Pairing this meal with some kimchi would add an extra nutritious element to support a healthy gut microbiome, while adding a delicious and cooling crunch. (11)
Another standout from Healthy Choice Frozen Meals, this bowl uses leafy greens, grains, and veggies to build a filling base.
“This frozen meal is a well-rounded option with 22g protein and only 1g added sugar, but for me the 7g of fiber from the dark leafy greens, whole grains and veggies make it a great choice compared to other frozen meals,” says Joanna Gregg, RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (12)
Pro pairing tips: “Use this meal as a base for a larger bowl or salad by adding greens like lettuce or spinach or canned beans you may have on hand,” says Gregg.
At just 370mg of sodium, this Amy’s bowl is the lowest-sodium option here without sacrificing the flavor. (13)
“When you don’t have the time or energy to cook, and Mexican food sounds good, this Amy’s bowl will hit the spot without the high sodium, fat and calories in typical Mexican take-out. (14) This vegetarian meal gets most of its protein from black beans (hello fiber!) and all of the ingredients are from organic, whole foods. This is a healthy take on comfort food at its best,” says Katherine Basbaum, RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (13)
Pro pairing tips: Even though this bowl is from Amy’s light in sodium line, the flavor doesn’t suffer. Pair with a simple side salad or add shredded lettuce and pico de gallo on top for extra crunch and freshness.
Look for meals with at least 15g of protein to support satiety, some fiber (at least 3g), and keep an eye on the sodium and saturated fat, opting for lower amounts as you compare between brands. (1,15)
Can frozen meals fit into a balanced diet?
Yes. Frozen meals can be convenient options for a quick meal and you can maximize the nutrition by pairing with fresh additions like salad, vegetables, or whole grains. Think of them as a base and focus on what you can add—whether that’s extra protein, fiber, or vegetables.
Are frozen meals high in sodium?
Sodium content varies widely among frozen meals. Look for options under 600-700mg per serving to help stay within the American Heart Association’s daily sodium limit of no more than 2,300mg. (16)
Bottom Line
Your freezer can do more than hold ice cream. With the right frozen meals, convenience and nutrition can coexist.
Start with one of our dietitian picks, add a simple side if you want, and call it a night. Real life is busy. Track your frozen meals in MyFitnessPal, and see how they factor in to your daily nutrient goals.
Let’s be honest: Sometimes, the only thing stopping you from eating a nutritious meal is the time and effort it takes to cook it. So, when time is scarce and the willpower to chop a vegetable is nonexistent, a frozen meal is an essential backup plan.
And we have good news! The frozen food aisle has evolved. Whether you’re searching for low calorie frozen meals for lighter nights or low sodium frozen meals that fit into your routine, smart options are easier to find than ever.
That’s why our dietitians analyzed the nutrition labels of popular frozen meals, paying close attention to protein, fiber, sodium, and saturated fat to find options that deliver balanced nutrition. Here we go!
Burrito bowls are a freezer aisle favorite for good reason. They pack multiple food groups into one container and work well for nights when you want filling, balanced frozen meals without cooking from scratch.
“I love that this frozen meal combines lean protein, whole grains and vegetables—serving up a more balanced meal containing protein and fiber. Plus, it contains micronutrients like calcium, potassium and a small amount of iron,” says Melissa Jaeger, RD, LD, MyFitnessPal Head of Nutrition. (2)
Pro pairing tips: If you’re looking to boost the fiber and protein, consider topping with drained and rinsed no-salt-added canned beans. (3)
Sometimes you just want comfort, and a butter chicken frozen meal does the job. This one keeps the flavor you want and the protein you need.
“This is a great choice as it is packed with protein, and a good source of fiber, iron and potassium. The sodium is relatively low for a frozen meal; it has only 1g of added sugars and contains simple ingredients. A win-win!” says Brookell White,RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (5)
Pro pairing tips: “Try boosting the fiber further with any cooked veggies you have on hand or a slice of whole grain bread. (6,7) You can also add canned and rinsed no-salt-added chickpeas for a larger dose of protein and fiber,” says White. (8,9)
This Korean BBQ chicken brings bold flavor to the table.
“This is a well-rounded, balanced meal providing carbs, protein and fat. It is also a good source of micronutrients like iron, potassium and vitamin A,” says Emily Sullivan, RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (10)
Pro pairing tips: Pairing this meal with some kimchi would add an extra nutritious element to support a healthy gut microbiome, while adding a delicious and cooling crunch. (11)
Another standout from Healthy Choice Frozen Meals, this bowl uses leafy greens, grains, and veggies to build a filling base.
“This frozen meal is a well-rounded option with 22g protein and only 1g added sugar, but for me the 7g of fiber from the dark leafy greens, whole grains and veggies make it a great choice compared to other frozen meals,” says Joanna Gregg, RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (12)
Pro pairing tips: “Use this meal as a base for a larger bowl or salad by adding greens like lettuce or spinach or canned beans you may have on hand,” says Gregg.
At just 370mg of sodium, this Amy’s bowl is the lowest-sodium option here without sacrificing the flavor. (13)
“When you don’t have the time or energy to cook, and Mexican food sounds good, this Amy’s bowl will hit the spot without the high sodium, fat and calories in typical Mexican take-out. (14) This vegetarian meal gets most of its protein from black beans (hello fiber!) and all of the ingredients are from organic, whole foods. This is a healthy take on comfort food at its best,” says Katherine Basbaum, RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (13)
Pro pairing tips: Even though this bowl is from Amy’s light in sodium line, the flavor doesn’t suffer. Pair with a simple side salad or add shredded lettuce and pico de gallo on top for extra crunch and freshness.
Look for meals with at least 15g of protein to support satiety, some fiber (at least 3g), and keep an eye on the sodium and saturated fat, opting for lower amounts as you compare between brands. (1,15)
Can frozen meals fit into a balanced diet?
Yes. Frozen meals can be convenient options for a quick meal and you can maximize the nutrition by pairing with fresh additions like salad, vegetables, or whole grains. Think of them as a base and focus on what you can add—whether that’s extra protein, fiber, or vegetables.
Are frozen meals high in sodium?
Sodium content varies widely among frozen meals. Look for options under 600-700mg per serving to help stay within the American Heart Association’s daily sodium limit of no more than 2,300mg. (16)
Bottom Line
Your freezer can do more than hold ice cream. With the right frozen meals, convenience and nutrition can coexist.
Start with one of our dietitian picks, add a simple side if you want, and call it a night. Real life is busy. Track your frozen meals in MyFitnessPal, and see how they factor in to your daily nutrient goals.
Let’s be honest: Sometimes, the only thing stopping you from eating a nutritious meal is the time and effort it takes to cook it. So, when time is scarce and the willpower to chop a vegetable is nonexistent, a frozen meal is an essential backup plan.
And we have good news! The frozen food aisle has evolved. Whether you’re searching for low calorie frozen meals for lighter nights or low sodium frozen meals that fit into your routine, smart options are easier to find than ever.
That’s why our dietitians analyzed the nutrition labels of popular frozen meals, paying close attention to protein, fiber, sodium, and saturated fat to find options that deliver balanced nutrition. Here we go!
Burrito bowls are a freezer aisle favorite for good reason. They pack multiple food groups into one container and work well for nights when you want filling, balanced frozen meals without cooking from scratch.
“I love that this frozen meal combines lean protein, whole grains and vegetables—serving up a more balanced meal containing protein and fiber. Plus, it contains micronutrients like calcium, potassium and a small amount of iron,” says Melissa Jaeger, RD, LD, MyFitnessPal Head of Nutrition. (2)
Pro pairing tips: If you’re looking to boost the fiber and protein, consider topping with drained and rinsed no-salt-added canned beans. (3)
Sometimes you just want comfort, and a butter chicken frozen meal does the job. This one keeps the flavor you want and the protein you need.
“This is a great choice as it is packed with protein, and a good source of fiber, iron and potassium. The sodium is relatively low for a frozen meal; it has only 1g of added sugars and contains simple ingredients. A win-win!” says Brookell White,RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (5)
Pro pairing tips: “Try boosting the fiber further with any cooked veggies you have on hand or a slice of whole grain bread. (6,7) You can also add canned and rinsed no-salt-added chickpeas for a larger dose of protein and fiber,” says White. (8,9)
This Korean BBQ chicken brings bold flavor to the table.
“This is a well-rounded, balanced meal providing carbs, protein and fat. It is also a good source of micronutrients like iron, potassium and vitamin A,” says Emily Sullivan, RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (10)
Pro pairing tips: Pairing this meal with some kimchi would add an extra nutritious element to support a healthy gut microbiome, while adding a delicious and cooling crunch. (11)
Another standout from Healthy Choice Frozen Meals, this bowl uses leafy greens, grains, and veggies to build a filling base.
“This frozen meal is a well-rounded option with 22g protein and only 1g added sugar, but for me the 7g of fiber from the dark leafy greens, whole grains and veggies make it a great choice compared to other frozen meals,” says Joanna Gregg, RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (12)
Pro pairing tips: “Use this meal as a base for a larger bowl or salad by adding greens like lettuce or spinach or canned beans you may have on hand,” says Gregg.
At just 370mg of sodium, this Amy’s bowl is the lowest-sodium option here without sacrificing the flavor. (13)
“When you don’t have the time or energy to cook, and Mexican food sounds good, this Amy’s bowl will hit the spot without the high sodium, fat and calories in typical Mexican take-out. (14) This vegetarian meal gets most of its protein from black beans (hello fiber!) and all of the ingredients are from organic, whole foods. This is a healthy take on comfort food at its best,” says Katherine Basbaum, RD, MyFitnessPal Registered Dietitian. (13)
Pro pairing tips: Even though this bowl is from Amy’s light in sodium line, the flavor doesn’t suffer. Pair with a simple side salad or add shredded lettuce and pico de gallo on top for extra crunch and freshness.
Look for meals with at least 15g of protein to support satiety, some fiber (at least 3g), and keep an eye on the sodium and saturated fat, opting for lower amounts as you compare between brands. (1,15)
Can frozen meals fit into a balanced diet?
Yes. Frozen meals can be convenient options for a quick meal and you can maximize the nutrition by pairing with fresh additions like salad, vegetables, or whole grains. Think of them as a base and focus on what you can add—whether that’s extra protein, fiber, or vegetables.
Are frozen meals high in sodium?
Sodium content varies widely among frozen meals. Look for options under 600-700mg per serving to help stay within the American Heart Association’s daily sodium limit of no more than 2,300mg. (16)
Bottom Line
Your freezer can do more than hold ice cream. With the right frozen meals, convenience and nutrition can coexist.
Start with one of our dietitian picks, add a simple side if you want, and call it a night. Real life is busy. Track your frozen meals in MyFitnessPal, and see how they factor in to your daily nutrient goals.
We visited Caddo in mid-November to see the bald cypresses in rusty orange fall regalia. One afternoon we drove to Caddo Lake State Park for an easy hike, picnic lunch, and boardwalk stroll at Saw Mill Pond.
Prior visitors had etched their names onto a metal post, their rusty scrawls echoing the orange cypresses.
Canoeists threaded through bottle-trunked cypresses in the pond.
Where else but Caddo can you paddle through a forest?
Jefferson
Another day we visited the small town of Jefferson, about 20 minutes away, to explore and have lunch.
We poked around downtown and admired its New Orleans-esque architecture.
Is everyone enjoying winter so far?? Are you longing for spring and a new gardening season? Need an entertaining garden talk to bridge the gap and inspire your own gardening dreams?
Then check out my upcoming talks about gorgeous, inspiring, and — above all — warm Texas gardens! I’ve lined up a bunch of new events for spring, both online and in person, and I’d love for you to join me. I’ll be sharing stories of resilient, creative Texas gardens and their garden makers, plus practical take-home ideas — all featured in my new book, Gardens of Texas.
Upcoming Events
Feb. 4 – Live webinar for the with-pam-penick/” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener”>Northwest Horticultural Society, a gardening organization in the Pacific Northwest, but open to viewers anywhere! 6:30-8:00 pm (PST) / 8:30-10:00 pm (CST). with-pam-penick/” target=”_blank” rel=”noreferrer noopener”>Register here. And if you can’t catch the live Zoom, a recording will be available to registrants for 3 weeks after the event.
Feb. 18 – Meet the Author event at Rice University in Houstonand live on Zoom, 6-8 pm. This is a hybrid event: when registering, you can choose to participate in person or through Zoom. In this conversation-style discussion, I’ll talk about my background at Rice, how I became a writer, and how my new book, Gardens of Texas, came about. After the discussion, in-person attendees are invited to a reception with heavy appetizers and drinks. This free event is presented by the Office of Alumni Relations and Friends of Fondren Library. Register here.
Feb. 19 – Houston Botanic Garden, 6:00-9:30 pm. In a panel conversation moderated by me, Houston garden owners featured in Gardens of Texas will join me on-stage to share what they’ve learned about making inviting outdoor spaces, choosing plants, supporting wildlife, and tending gardens that are both resilient and deeply personal. Expect practical insights, local perspectives, and a close look at the beauty of gardens grown in harmony with place. I’ll have books for sale and signing before and after the discussion. Register here.
Last November, I photographed several Austin gardens designed by landscape architect Curt Arnette of Sitio Design, who’s also an old friend and former neighbor. Between my book tour schedule and the holidays, I didn’t find time to edit those photos until January — an excellent winter project. With Curt’s and the owners’ permission, I’ll give you a peek into several beautifully designed private gardens by one of the most talented garden makers in Austin.
Let’s start with this New Orleans-inspired walled garden in central Austin. Recycled brick — faded red with a little gray and traces of old paint in robin’s egg blue — encloses a paved courtyard with a tiered fountain.
The splashing fountain muffles the noise of highway traffic a couple blocks away.
Green foliage — Texas dwarf palmetto needle palm, ‘Feather Falls’ sedge, foxtail fern — provides serene lushness. Nothing fussy here, just what works in a good deal of shade.
Creeping tendrils of fig ivy green up the walls.
An arched doorway with a lacy iron gate echoes three inset arches on the fountain wall.
A tall screen of green-black shutters hides something — maybe a utility box? — and adds more NOLA style.
Last fall I visited a west Austin garden on a bluff overlooking green hills and a winding, rocky creek. Designed by landscape architect Curt Arnette of Sitio Design, the garden subtly echoes the view with a bermed zoysia lawn studded with limestone boulders. “The mounding captures the hills and draws them in,” Curt says.
Curt united clusters of live oaks in the center of the yard into one large shade garden. A wide stepping-stone path meanders through, offering access and a garden stroll. For the understory, tufts of sedge and masses of cast-iron plant add easy-care greenery, punctuated by dwarf palmetto and yaupon holly.
A side view reveals grassy ribbons running through the garden: giant liriope, Berkeley sedge, and variegated ‘Feather Falls’. Lyre-leaf sage and spiderwort are here too for seasonal color.
At the path entrance, a graceful, scroll-like chunk of limestone stands on end as a natural sculptural element. “That curvy stone was already on the property, lying down, and we stood it up,” says Curt.
Last November, landscape architect Curt Arnette and I visited another of his Sitio Design landscapes. Located in southwest Austin, this garden features low-maintenance grasses and waterwise plants like agave, prickly pear, and sotol.
Limestone boulders play a hefty role in the garden. Curt used them to elevate naturalistic planting beds…
…add separation between lawn and garden…
…and create a sense of enclosure. Notice how the curving line of stone seems to ripple out from the curve of the entry walk.
The boulders live harmoniously with prickly pear, woolly stemodia, and Lindheimer muhly — a “gardened up” version of exposed limestone and native plants in the wild.
Near the front door, I appreciated cotton-candy clouds of Gulf muhly in full bloom.
The rosy-pink inflorescence of Gulf muhly stands out against a gray-green backdrop of woolly stemodia, Wheeler’s sotol, and cenizo — all native to Texas.
