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These are a few of our favorite things…
This year, we decided to get a jump start on our best of the year list, a feat that usually doesn’t happen until at least thanksgiving. We made the leap to installing permanent outdoor lighting so my annual trips up the ladder are over, so I can focus on more important things – like getting our Best of 2024 list published and out the door.
As if last year wasn’t crazy enough, this one made it look tame by comparison. An election of monumental proportions, rising then falling interest rates, not one but two foreign wars, a housing market in flux, and still we find things to make us feel the most basic human emotions. The large majority of our best-of lists each year are dedicated to those very things.
This month, as we’ve done for the last several years, we’ll be highlighting and celebrating some of our most remarkable finds of the year including our favorite stories, books, podcasts, music, movies, shows and products of the year. We’ll also be touching on our favorite local restaurants and weekend escapes. We’re interested to hear what you think of the list, and how yours would differ from ours, so we’re leaving commenting turned on below. So let us have it!
*Word of note here, this is not to say that these things were necessarily released to the public in 2024, but rather, when we discovered them.
Happy Holidays
– Brian.
JUMP TO:
Headlines around the world
Each year, we scour the headlines for the years top stories. 2024 was tame in comparison to recent years, but there was still a lot that kept us glued to the media. From foreign affairs to shock TV right here in our own backyard, here’s our list of some of the biggest, scariest, and craziest headlines of 2024.
How Donald Trump won the 2024 Election
It was the moment he had fantasized about for four years. At 2:24 a.m. on Nov. 6, Donald Trump strutted on stage in a Florida ballroom, surrounded by advisers, party leaders, family and friends. The Associated Press had yet to call the race, but it was clear by then that the voters had swept him back into power. Staring out at a sea of supporters sporting red MAGA hats, Trump basked in the all-but-certain triumph. “We’ve achieved the most incredible political thing,” Trump said. “America has given us an unprecedented and powerful mandate.”
What the NAR Settlement Means to Home Sellers (and Buyers)
On March 15, 2024, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) entered into a nationwide settlement covering the commissions lawsuits brought by sellers in many states across the country. This settlement includes the state and local associations and REALTOR®-owned MLSs, such as the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR). The courts still need to approve the settlement, which likely won’t happen until late November.
Caitlin Clark changing the Popularity of the WNBA
Caitlin Clark is already aware of her place in sports and the WNBA. The Indiana Fever guard hadn’t even played a professional game yet and is already among the World’s most popular athletes. She recently signed a reported eight-year, $28 million endorsement deal with Nike — her brand is growing rapidly after dominating the sports news cycle for nearly two months.
The Parties that Led to Diddys Downfall
There was a time when an invitation to a party hosted by Sean “Diddy” Combs was one of the most sought-after tickets in the entertainment industry. “When Diddy winked at you and said come into the VIP section, you knew you were going to have a really good night,” Rob Shuter, who worked as a publicist for the rapper at the height of his fame, told BBC News in an exclusive interview. Now Mr Shuter’s former star client is sitting in a Brooklyn jail cell, a short drive away from the Hamptons, where he once presided over decadent celebrity bashes.
AI is coming fast and it’s going to be a rough ride
ChatGPT’s writing and artistic capabilities offer the public a stunning preview of how far AI technology has already advanced and a hint of what’s to come. As AI evolves, the consequences for the U.S. economy, national security, and other vital parts of our lives will be enormous.
Once upon a time…
We are voracious readers. Books, news apps, blogs, newspapers, and social media all feed that appetite. But there are some articles that just fall outside of the norm that we find interesting. Here’s our take on some of our favorites of the year.
3D Printing Buildings without Cement
Could 3D construction printing already be on it’s way out? If a group of researchers at SFIT have their way, yes. It’s called impact printing and uses natural resources like sand, silt, clay and gravel that can be literally be excavated AT the construction site.
Apple’s Airpod Pros hearing health features are as good as they sound
Of all the things that Apple has brought to the health services community, this year’s release of iOS 18.1 and Airpod Pro’s hearing aid functionality has the potential to change millions of consumers lives by giving them an affordable option to overpriced hearing aids.
700,000 years of Egyptian history find enormous new home
I have ALWAYS wanted to visit Egypt to see the pyramids, and now THIS?!? The Grand Egyptian Museum, the size of 80 FOOTBALL FIELDS has opened about a mile North of them. And by all accounts it is absolutely stunning!
The 50 Best Movie Soundtracks of all Time
There’s a lot right with this list, but also some key misses. My top ten in no particular order: Purple Rain, Pretty in Pink, Grease, Highlander, Dazed and Confused, The Lost Boys, A Hard Day’s Night, Heavy Metal, City of Angels, and Xanadu. Which would you choose?
Teen Social Media Use May Increase Risk of Mental Health Problems
I found this really compelling. That’s not to say that I think ‘warning labels’ will do any more good than they did on tobacco and alcohol products, but rather the risks social media poses to kids. I had no idea someone had actually done the math.
US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy called on Congress yesterday to require warning labels on social media platforms, like those for tobacco and alcohol, to highlight their potential harm to children’s mental health. In a New York Times op-ed, Murthy identified social media as a major factor in the mental health crisis among adolescents, citing a 2019 study that linked over three hours of daily social media use to a doubled risk of anxiety and depression—teens average 4.8 hours per day.
He argued previous research shows warning labels can raise awareness and influence parental behavior. The op-ed follows his May 2023 advisory recommending limits on social media use, such as phone-free schools and restricting access until after middle school.
Books we couldn’t put down
There is a never a lack of great books coming down the pipeline, and each year we try to read some fiction, some non-fiction, with a little bit of personal development and business / wealth-building titles. This year we found some doozies.
Claws
Tim Sojka’s Claws is a captivating and darkly humorous crime novel set in the heart of Texas. The story follows Teeny Voix, a mute girl who becomes embroiled in a dangerous world of child trafficking and murder. With its unique blend of mystery, suspense, and Southern Gothic elements, “Claws” offers a thrilling and unforgettable reading experience. Sojka’s vivid storytelling and intricate plot twists keep readers engaged from beginning to end.
Daisy Jones & the Six
Daisy Jones & The Six is a page-turning novel that delves into the rise and fall of a 1970s rock band. Told through a series of interviews, the book offers a glimpse into the tumultuous relationships, creative genius, and ultimate demise of the band. Taylor Jenkins Reid masterfully crafts complex characters and weaves a story that feels both nostalgic and utterly original. The novel’s exploration of fame, addiction, and the complexities of human relationships makes it a compelling read for fans of rock music and literary fiction alike. Popular opinion among readers suggests the story is loosely based on the members of Fleetwood Mac.
Sharp Objects
Gillian Flynn’s Sharp Objects is a dark, atmospheric thriller that delves into the mind of a troubled journalist, Camille Preaker. As she returns to her small hometown to investigate a series of murders, Camille confronts her own demons and the sinister secrets of her family. Flynn’s masterful storytelling, coupled with the novel’s unsettling atmosphere, makes Sharp Objects a gripping and unforgettable read.
Atomic Habits
Atomic Habits by James Clear is a practical guide to building good habits and breaking bad ones. Clear breaks down the process of habit formation into simple, actionable steps. By focusing on small, incremental changes, readers can achieve significant results over time. The book is filled with real-world examples and scientific insights, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their life.
The Infinite Game
The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek offers a refreshing perspective on leadership and strategy. Sinek distinguishes between finite and infinite games, arguing that many organizations mistakenly play to win a finite game, focusing on short-term goals and immediate victories. Instead, he advocates for an infinite mindset, where the goal is to keep playing, adapt, and evolve. By shifting the focus from winning to continuing, organizations can build lasting value and resilience.
Like movies, but for the ears
Podcasts have exploded in popularity over the last several years, and even prompted a lot of folks, just like me, to cancel Audible subscriptions in their favor. And you can listen to just about any topic you could imagine. Here are some of our favorites this year.
Small Town Dicks
Small Town Dicks is a true crime podcast that dives into big-time crimes happening in small-town America. Each episode features detectives who broke a case in their local community, sharing firsthand accounts and insights. The podcast delves into the evidence, suspect interviews, and 9-1-1 calls, offering a comprehensive look at the crime and its investigation. Hosted by actress Yeardley Smith and featuring twin detectives Dan and Dave, along with forensic expert Paul Holes, the show offers a unique blend of storytelling and expert analysis.
The David Greene Show
The David Greene Show is a podcast focused on real estate investing. Hosted by David Greene, the show features interviews with real estate experts, analysis of real estate deals, and discussions on various real estate strategies. Greene shares his own experiences and insights, offering listeners practical advice and inspiration to achieve their real estate goals.
Bridgewater
The Bridgewater podcast is a fictional mystery-thriller series. It follows Jeremy Bradshaw, a folklore professor, as he delves into the mysterious disappearance of his police officer father in the Bridgewater Triangle, a real-life area in Massachusetts known for strange occurrences and legends. As Jeremy investigates, he uncovers dark secrets, encounters supernatural elements, and challenges his own beliefs about the world. The podcast blends elements of mystery, horror, and historical fiction, creating a suspenseful and intriguing listening experience.
Dark History
The Dark History podcast, hosted by Bailey Sarian, delves into the untold and often shocking stories from history that were never covered in school. Each episode explores a different dark chapter, ranging from notorious historical figures to corporate scandals and mysterious events. Sarian’s engaging storytelling style and captivating voice bring these often overlooked historical moments to life, making them both informative and entertaining.
Murder 101
The Murder 101 podcast chronicles the remarkable story of a group of high school students who, under the guidance of their teacher, Alex Campbell, took on the challenge of solving a decades-old cold case. The students delved into the complex details of the case, interviewed witnesses, and analyzed evidence, ultimately identifying a potential suspect. Their groundbreaking work has garnered national attention and sparked renewed interest in the unsolved murders.
Music you won’t find on mainstream radio
We tend to shy away from mainstream commercial music, even that which comes out of Nashville. I can’t even tell you the last time my car stereo tuned into a local station. Most of this year’s selections hail from the Americana category, which is what country was before it sadly became what it is.
Moment of Truth
The Red Clay Strays’ Moment of Truth is a powerful album that blends Southern rock, blues, and gospel influences. The band delivers a raw and authentic sound, with heartfelt lyrics and energetic performances. The album explores themes of love, loss, and redemption, while also paying homage to classic rock and soul music. With their unique blend of styles and passionate delivery, The Red Clay Strays have garnered a dedicated following and critical acclaim for their music.
Leavin’ this Holler
49 Winchester’s Leavin’ This Holler is a powerful and soulful album that showcases the band’s unique blend of Appalachian roots rock and Americana. The album features strong songwriting, powerful vocals, and tight musicianship. With tracks like Favor and Hillbilly Happy, the band delivers a mix of energetic rockers and heartfelt ballads.
Lavender Days
CAAMP’s Lavender Days is a captivating album that showcases the band’s growth and evolution. With its blend of folk, indie rock, and Americana, the album offers a soothing and introspective listening experience. Taylor Meier’s distinctive vocals, combined with the band’s tight instrumentation, create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lavender Days is a testament to CAAMP’s ability to craft heartfelt and relatable music.
Songs of a Lost World
The Cure’s Songs of a Lost World is a poignant and introspective album that showcases the band’s enduring talent. The album delves into themes of loss, longing, and the passage of time, delivering a melancholic and atmospheric sound. While it may not reach the heights of their classic albums like Disintegration or Wish, Songs of a Lost World is a solid addition to their discography, offering a mature and thoughtful exploration of the human condition.
EP
Feel’s EP is a refreshing burst of garage rock energy. The band’s raw sound and catchy melodies evoke a nostalgic feeling of 90s indie rock. With tracks like Life Goes On and Daze, Feel delivers a high-energy and infectious listening experience. The EP showcases the band’s potential for crafting memorable tunes and captivating audiences. While it may be a short release, it leaves listeners wanting more.
At the Movies or Streaming at Home
After a couple of years in which the movie industry saw streaming services skyrocket in popularity, Hollywood continued its return to theaters this year, and brought some seriously big hits with them. We can almost certainly count on the big ‘theaters vs. streaming’ release decision from here on out:
The Equalizer 3
The Equalizer 3 follows Robert McCall as he relocates to Southern Italy. While enjoying a peaceful life, he discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall steps in to protect them, once again becoming a vigilante and taking on the mafia.
Fall Guy
The Fall Guy is a 2024 action comedy film starring Ryan Gosling as Colt Seavers, a stuntman who gets injured and leaves the industry. Years later, he’s pulled back into the world of action films when a movie star disappears. Colt must navigate the dangerous world of Hollywood while trying to win back his ex-girlfriend, who is now a film director.
Inside Out 2
Inside Out 2 follows Riley Anderson as she navigates the challenges of adolescence. Her core emotions, Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust, are joined by new emotions like Anxiety, Envy, an Embarrassment. As Riley faces new experiences like high school and hockey camp, her emotions clash and compete, leading to humorous and heartwarming situations. The film explores the complexities of teenage life, the power of friendship, and the importance of embracing all emotions.
Ghostbusters Frozen Empire
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire is a fun, family-friendly sequel that continues the legacy of the Ghostbusters franchise. The film follows the Spengler family as they navigate the challenges of ghostbusting and protect New York City from a new, icy threat. While it’s not as groundbreaking as its predecessor, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, Frozen Empire offers plenty of nostalgia, humor, and thrilling action sequences to satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers to the series.
The Beekeeper
The Beekeeper is a 2024 action thriller starring Jason Statham. The film follows a former operative who emerges from hiding to seek vengeance on those who wronged him. Known for its over-the-top action sequences and Statham’s signature style, the movie is a fun, mindless ride for fans of the genre, though it has been criticized for its simplistic plot and predictable twists.
Remember when binging wasn’t about TV?
Breaking Bad not only had a massive following of loyal watchers… it also coined the phrase binge-watching that applies to so many more shows these days. All these new streaming services have created a new addiction for movie and television watchers. Here’s some that we loved this year:
Disclaimer
Disclaimer is a psychological thriller series staring Cate Blanchett as Catherine Ravenscroft, a celebrated author who receives a mysterious manuscript that threatens to expose a dark secret from her past. As she delves deeper into the manuscript, she becomes increasingly entangled in a web of lies and deception, leading to a suspenseful and thought-provoking exploration of identity, truth, and the blurred lines between fiction and reality.
Young Sheldon
Young Sheldon is a sitcom that serves as a prequel to The Big Bang Theory. It follows a young Sheldon Cooper as he navigates life in East Texas, attending school and dealing with his family. The show explores Sheldon’s unique perspective on the world, his academic brilliance, and his often awkward social interactions. With its heartwarming moments, quirky humor, and nostalgic setting, Young Sheldon offers a delightful look into the early years of one of television’s most beloved characters.
FBI International
FBI: International is a police procedural drama series that follows a team of elite FBI agents based in Budapest. This specialized team, known as the “Fly Team,” travels across Europe to investigate crimes and threats against American interests. The series focuses on their high-stakes missions, international cooperation, and the personal challenges they face while working in a foreign environment.
Shrinking
Shrinking is a comedy-drama series that follows the life of Jimmy Laird, a grieving therapist who starts to break the rules and tell his clients exactly what he thinks. As he navigates his own grief and personal challenges, Jimmy begins to make significant changes in the lives of those around him, often with hilarious and heartwarming results. The show stars Jason Segel as Jimmy, with Harrison Ford playing his mentor and fellow therapist, Dr. Phil Rhodes.
Show Horses
Slow Horses is a spy thriller series about a group of MI5 agents who have been relegated to Slough House, a sort of spy purgatory. These “slow horses” are considered failures and are given menial tasks. Despite their past mistakes, they find themselves drawn into dangerous situations, proving that even the most overlooked agents can make a difference.
What app should I download next?
The Apple App store and Google Play both maintain top app lists, but their rankings are typically determined simply by downloads.. and I don’t know about you… but I’ve got lots of apps that I rarely use. That’s why we’d like to share our list of apps that we use everyday. Perhaps you’ll find that even just one of these can become a new favorite.
Bear
Bear is a powerful and intuitive note-taking app that uses Markdown formatting for clean and organized notes. It offers features like tagging, searching, and exporting to various formats. Bear is designed for both casual note-taking and more serious writing projects, making it a versatile tool for students, writers, and anyone who needs to capture and organize their thoughts.
Libby
Libby is a fantastic app that allows you to borrow ebooks and audiobooks from your local library directly to your device. It’s incredibly user-friendly, with a clean interface and easy navigation. You can search for titles, browse recommendations, and even place holds on popular books. Libby also offers features like adjustable font sizes, bookmarking, and the ability to switch between reading and listening modes. It’s a great way to access a vast library of books without the hassle of physical checkouts.
Parking Mobility
Parking Mobility is an app designed to combat accessible parking abuse. Users can easily report vehicles illegally parked in disabled parking spots by taking a few photos and submitting them through the app. This information is then sent to local authorities for enforcement. The app also helps people with disabilities find accessible parking spots by displaying their locations on a map.
Halide
Halide is a professional camera app for iPhones and iPads. It offers a variety of manual controls like shutter speed, ISO, focus, and white balance, allowing for more creative photography. Halide also features advanced tools like histograms, focus peaking, and RAW shooting, making it a great choice for photographers who want to have more control over their images.
Scanner Pro
Scanner Pro is a powerful mobile scanning app that lets you turn your phone’s camera into a portable scanner. It automatically detects edges, removes shadows, and corrects distortions to create clear, high-quality scans of documents, receipts, whiteboards, and more. You can save your scans as PDFs or images, and easily share them via email, cloud storage, or other apps.
Food is life
Residents all over Katy and Fulshear have been begging for some great new dining options for years. They’re tired of fast food and huge chains restaurants and are just looking for something a little… different. This year, those wishes have been granted.
Local Table
Local Table in Katy is a popular dining spot known for its fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and comfortable atmosphere. They offer a diverse menu with something for everyone, from classic comfort food to modern American cuisine. The restaurant is particularly praised for its brunch offerings, which include delicious dishes like the Avocado Toast and the Breakfast Burrito. Local Table is a great choice for a casual meal with friends or family.
Lozano’s
Lozano’s Mexican-Latin Cocina in Katy is a popular spot for authentic Mexican cuisine. They’re known for their flavorful fajitas, enchiladas, and guacamole. The service is generally friendly and efficient, making it a great choice for a casual dining experience.
The Oaks
The Oaks Kitchen & Bar in Katy is a popular local restaurant known for its stylish ambiance and diverse menu. It offers a range of dishes, from classic comfort food to innovative culinary creations. The restaurant is particularly praised for its brunch offerings, which include delicious options like the Avocado Toast and the Breakfast Burrito. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a special dinner, The Oaks Kitchen & Bar is a great choice.
Mia’s Table
Mia’s Table in Katy is a popular, family-friendly restaurant known for its hearty American comfort food. It offers a diverse menu with classic dishes like chicken-fried steak, burgers, and salads. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. While the food is generally good, some reviews mention that the quality can vary. Overall, Mia’s Table is a reliable choice for a satisfying meal in Katy.
Adriatic Cafe
Adriatic Cafe in Katy is a beloved family-owned Italian restaurant known for its authentic cuisine and warm atmosphere. They offer a variety of classic Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant’s friendly service and affordable prices make it a popular choice for families and couples.
A Great Escape
We know it’s holiday time, but because of lot of popular destinations require reservations, it’s never too early to get a jump start on planning your great escapes. Here are five we highly recommend.
Pedernales Falls
Pedernales Falls State Park is a popular destination in the Texas Hill Country known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The park features the stunning Pedernales Falls, where the river cascades over limestone formations, creating picturesque swimming holes and hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, swimming, camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The park is also a popular spot for kayaking and tubing on the river.
McKinney Falls
McKinney Falls State Park is a beautiful natural area located in Austin, Texas. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and swimming. The park’s main attraction is the stunning McKinney Falls, where visitors can enjoy picturesque views and cool off in the water. The park also features a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and deer.
Devil’s River
The Devil’s River is a scenic and remote river located in the Texas Hill Country. Known for its crystal-clear water, diverse wildlife, and stunning limestone canyons, it’s a popular destination for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. The river’s remote location and challenging rapids make it a favorite among experienced paddlers. However, it’s important to note that the river can be dangerous, especially during high water levels, so it’s crucial to plan accordingly and be aware of the risks.
The Chapel at Presidio La Bahia
The Chapel at Presidio La Bahia is a historic landmark and one of the oldest continuously used churches in the United States. It played a significant role in Texas history, including being the site of the signing of the first Texas Declaration of Independence. The chapel features a unique groin-vaulted ceiling and a striking fresco behind the altar. It remains an active place of worship and a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history of Texas.
Natural Bridge Caverns
Natural Bridge Caverns are the largest known commercial caverns in Texas. They offer guided tours through a vast underground network of chambers filled with stunning formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. The caverns also feature a natural limestone bridge, which gives the park its name. In addition to the cave tours, the park offers various outdoor activities such as zip lining, ropes courses, and gemstone mining.
Take our money, Amazon
I don’t know about you, but I’m starting to feel like we’re on a first name basis with the Amazon delivery guy. He brings me my stuff and never complains! And this year, we came across some amazing products that we just had to share. A LOT of these are currently having pre-black-friday sales right now.
So that’s it. That’s our list for 2024. What do you think? What would you add, and why? We’ve opened up the comments section below because we want to hear from you. So let us have it! And until next year, have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!
Want more? Check out our previous Best-Of lists: