Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Bastille Day Austin

2011-07-14T23:41:00.001-05:00

http://www.afaustin.org/bastilleday.html

July 16, 2011
7:00 pm - 11:00 pmFrench Legation Museum
Tickets:
Advance - $8
At Door - $10
12 and Under - Free

Burnet Road Flea Market

2011-06-28T10:47:00.000-05:00

Burnet Road 6701 is also now hosting the old Burnet Road Flea Market (formerly at Burnet and W. 49th near the Omelettry). The Flea Market is the second Saturday of each month.

New Splash Pad in Williamson County Park

2011-06-03T23:04:00.003-05:00

Quarry Splash Pad is having it's Grand Opening Friday June 10th.

"Williamson County invites the public to celebrate the grand opening of the new Quarry Splash Pad at the SW Regional Park on Friday, June 10, 2011, at 9 a.m. Water features include water cannons, waterfalls, and water jets. Two large pavilions, two birthday pavilions, restrooms & concession stand located in the approximately 2-acre park. Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily entrance fee of $1. No lifeguard on duty. Food allowed. No glass."

If you are unfamiliar with Williamson County Park it is by Mayfield Ranch off 1431.

Mayborn Planetarium & Space Theater

2011-06-01T17:51:00.000-05:00

http://www.starsatnight.org/
6200 West Central Texas Expressway, Killeen, TX 76549

A few annual summer events that are changing...

2011-05-10T22:19:00.004-05:00

Regal Summer Movie Express

(Used to be Family Film Festival)

Previous years this has been a free summer event, now it will cost $1.

"Welcome to Regal's Summer Movie Express 2011. Moviegoers of all ages can climb aboard to enjoy a great selection of films. During this 9-week festival, select Regal Cinemas, United Artists and Edwards Theatres will offer selected G or PG rated movies for only a dollar on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:00am."

Feed Your Brain Reading Program at Half Price Books

Previous years this has been on a weekly basis with a $3 gift card as a rewards for reading 15 minutes 5 days a week.

Now it will be 600 minutes over the whole summer to receive a $5 gift card the last week of summer.

See "get started" link for entire details.

2011-04-22T18:44:00.001-05:00

Footloose the Musical

Any one else looking forward to summer???

Blonde V. Brunette

2011-04-05T15:37:00.002-05:00

http://www.bvbaustin.com/

Blondes Vs. Brunettes Powder Puff Showdown to Benefit Alzheimer’s Association

You can try out for the team or buy tickets to the game! I'm posting this early in case you want to play in the game! :) The game is in June.

2011-01-14T14:49:00.004-06:00

Blow Your Own Ornament

2010-12-04T21:57:00.002-06:00

Blow your own glass ornament in Salado, Tx

Blow Ornaments Saturdays and Sundays from
November 27th-December 19th by
Appointment only.
Please call 254-654-9171 to make your
appointment and to check hours

Walk-ins welcome 9-5 M-W-F after
Thanksgiving.
113 Salado Plaza Dr., Salado, Texas

I had a friend tell me about this and it looks so cool!

I think we are making an appointment for next Saturday!

2010-11-22T22:38:00.001-06:00

Chuy's Annual Children giving to Children Parade

November 27, 2010

Approx. an hour long.

Begins at 11am

Starts at the State Capitol at 11th and Congress

Moving South on Congress to Cesar Chavez

Bring a toy to donate to Operation Blue Santa Program

Parade will stop to collect donation.

Main Street Bethlehem

2010-11-16T18:18:00.000-06:00

Ancient Bethlehem comes alive in Burnet the first and second weekend in December as townspeople and street vendors recreate the time of the birth of Jesus. A cast including animals, blacksmiths, soldiers and craftspeople transport you to that miraculous night. Open 6-9 p.m.

Phone : 512-756-4481 (Always call and confirm events.)
Web Address : www.lakesandhills.com/festivalsevents.htm

Make an informed vote tomorrow!

2010-11-01T14:47:00.000-05:00

Your vote makes a difference. Know who you are voting into office and what they stand for!
Find out who is on your ballot and what they have to say:
http://www.vote411.org/onyourballot/state.php

http://www.lwv.org/

Halloween weekend free events!

2010-10-28T14:38:00.002-05:00

Free Fun in Austin has a good list of the top 10 free things to do this Halloween weekend!

Austin Cornucopia

2010-10-22T16:53:00.002-05:00

www.austincornucopia.com

This place came recommended by a friend. Can't wait to check it out.

Cornucopia offers 40+ unique gourmet popcorn flavors. Each of our batches are handmade by us in our shop in Austin.

Pumpkin Patches

2010-10-20T17:04:00.000-05:00

Here are a few more pumpkin patches in the area...

1. Best Pumpkin Patches in Austin

2. Dripping Springs United Methodist Church has a pumpkin patch on 290

3. hours:
Sunday:12 – 6 p.m.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m.- 7 p.m.
Tuesday &Thursday: 2:30pm-7:00pm

Location:
St. Johns United Methodist Church
(right across from Lamar Middle School)
2140 Allandale Drive
Austin, Texas

October 28, 2010 at Old Settlers Park Soccer Fields

2010-10-02T22:40:00.001-05:00

The Round Rock Parks and Recreation Fall Fun Festival 2010 will take place from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 28 at the soccer fields at Old Settlers Park.

HOWDY! Come on down to the Old McDonald themed Fall Fun Festival. This is a fun and FREE event for toddlers and preschoolers. Participants will receive a goodie bag full of candy at the entrance and then can go run and play all of the carnival games including cookie stacking, spider ring toss, pumpkin knock down and much more! Don't forget to hop on a hayride thru the park and enjoy cookies and punch! Remember to come in costume!

Round Rock Public Library staff will be there reading books at the festival and guests can climb on board a fire truck! Bring your trick or treat bags and collect goodies.

Guests are encouraged to bring a canned item for our local Round Rock Serving Center.

Campaign Rally with Bill White

2010-09-30T13:58:00.000-05:00

Time	Saturday, October 2 · 9:00am - 1:00pm

Location	Coordinated Campaign Headquarters 894 Summit St. Suite 109 Round Rock, TX

Created By	Williamson County Democrats

More Info	Come meet the next Governor of Texas!! Mayor Bill White will be making a stop in Round Rock to fire up supporters and volunteers with his message of bringing responsible leadership back to the governor's mansion. Come show your support, meet Mayor White, and stick around to block walk or make phone calls.

Ceramics-N-More

2010-09-19T15:01:00.000-05:00

Paint Your Own Pottery Studio
now open in the Railyard Shopping Center
601 E Whiteston Blvd Ste 218
512.528.1157

ceramicsam.com

Free Fun Tomorrow!!

2010-09-17T15:19:00.001-05:00

Photography

2010-09-13T22:22:00.001-05:00

I finally created a facebook page for my new photography business. I would appreciate it if you could "like" it. Even if you never use facebook, your friends will see that you liked it. It will really help me spread the word. Thanks so much! Just follow this link: Natalie Portugal Photography

2nd Annual Bariatric Transformation Fashion Show

2010-09-08T11:52:00.002-05:00

BARIATRIC PROGRAM CELEBRATES MORE THAN 3,000 POUNDS LOST WITH TRANSFORMATION FASHION SHOW:

2^nd Annual Bariatric Transformation Fashion Show scheduled for Wednesday, September 8^th at 7pm

Cedar Park, TX — September 8, 2010— Cedar Park Regional Medical Center and the Cedar Park Surgeons invite the community to celebrate the second anniversary of the Bariatric Program! You’re invited to join the bariatric patients in celebrating their success of losing over 3,000 pounds. Delicious hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be provided, followed by an unforgettable fashion show. This event will be offered FREE to the public. No registration is required!

2^nd Annual Bariatric Transformation Fashion Show

Cedar Park Regional Medical Center Cafe
Wednesday, September 8^th, 7PM
No registration is required; FREE!

About Cedar Park Regional Medical Center

Cedar Park Regional Medical Center (CPRMC) is located in Cedar Park, Texas, and is a 150-bed Joint Commission accredited community hospital. Serving the healthcare needs of Cedar Park and its surrounding communities, CPRMC is a quality-driven and trusted healthcare provider. With over 300 physicians on its medical staff, the hospital offers an array of medical services including: a 24-hour emergency department, ICU, PCU, Medical/Surgical Services, General and Bariatric Surgery, Outpatient Rehab, Urology, Gastroenterology, Women’s Health Services, Laboratory Services, Diagnostic Imaging, Nuclear Medicine, Sleep Medicine, Women’s Services, the da Vinci robotic surgical system, and more.

last chance for this Austin tradition!

2010-08-11T09:23:00.000-05:00

July 9 - August 14, 2010

Thursdays-Sundays • approx. 8:30pm [at dusk]

bring a blanket to sit on

Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theater
Located in Zilker Park across from Barton Springs Pool
Admission: FREE!
[parking: $3/car]
http://www.zilker.org/

Healthy Woman Spa Day- Aug 7

2010-07-31T09:19:00.002-05:00

Dana Raykovich, who organized this event, told me:
I just wanted to let you know that there isn’t a catch, but instead our objective is to get women (healthcare decision-makers) in to see our beautiful facility and to get to know more about our free program. We have free monthly events that focus on women’s health: mind, body and spirit. We have also have three big events a year: a 5K/ Health Expo in April, the Spa Day in August and the Anniversary Celebration in November (which is a ticketed, seated dinner, fashion show, keynote speaker type event).

Summer Cultural Fest

2010-07-23T18:09:00.002-05:00

The Round Rock Ballet Folklorico and the City of Round Rock invite you to the third annual Summer Cultural Fest 2010 on Saturday, July 24. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to the Round Rock Amphitehatre, where you can enjoy free performances from 7 - 9 p.m.

Featured artists at the festival are Okinawa Tomonokai, Bollywood Shake, and The Love of China, with Round Rock Ballet Folklorico performing beautiful traditional dances from the states of Michoacan and Hidalgo, Mexico and featuring the Zoot Suit from the Mexican American culture of the 1940’s.

Round Rock Amphitheatre
Located behind the Baca Center on 301 Bagdad
Round Rock, Texas

The Peddler Show

2010-07-21T13:16:00.000-05:00

The Peddler Show is coming to the Cedar Park Center for three days this July. Shoppers will find a vast selection of unique items including personalized designs, home decor ,hand crafted jewelry, fashionable clothing, gourmet treats, creative gifts and so much more. July 23-25, 2010 Friday, July 23 - 3pm to 8pm Saturday, July 24th 9am to 6pm Sunday, July 25th - 11am to 4pm Admission: $6 for Adults, $5 for Seniors 65+, free for kids under 5 Take advantage of our Buy One Get One Free admission offer!Buy one $6 Adult admission and get one free with our online coupon at PeddlerShow.com. Parking is FREE and One Admission is good all weekend! It’s just $6 for adults, $5 for seniors 65 and up…. $5 for children ages 5 thru 11 and children under 5 get in FREE! Don’t miss The Peddler Show as it marks its 33rd year with over 20 shows throughout Texas! For more information and to receive your discount coupon, visit www.PeddlerShow.com or call (800) 775-2774.
Location: Cedar Park Center, 2100 Ave. of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX Contact: 800-775-2774
www.peddlershow.com

North Austin

2010-07-20T13:02:00.001-05:00

Here are some fun things to do mostly in North Austin. I may have mentioned most of these before, but these are taken from http://cedarparkfun.com.

Head to the San Gabriel River, to hike the river bed (you’ll get wet!) and see the famous dinosaur tracks. Park your car at the bridge on the South San Gabriel River, just north of Leander on US 183, and walk upstream for half a mile to see these three-toed dinosaur tracks.

Why not start your vacation with a Texas Stars hockey game at the Cedar Park Center? If hockey isn't in season during your stay, the Cedar Park Center features popular artists in concert and excellent events such as Disney On Ice, Cirque du Soleil, and more! There is always something to see at the Cedar Park Center.

Visit the Hidden Falls Adventure Park! Offering paint ball and trails for motorcycles, ATVs and mountain biking, it's sure to be an adventure.

The Way Off Broadway Community Players produces several plays and musicals each year. Visit www.wobcp.org for a schedule.

Just down the road is Round Rock Express baseball at the Dell Diamond. Not only can you get caught up in the excitement of a game, you can also take a guided ballpark tour that is available year around! Visit www.roundrockexpress.com for tickets, game schedules, and other activities.Day 4:

Want to play ball with the family? Visit Southwest Regional Park for tennis courts, baseball fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, disc golf, and a 2 mile running or biking path. Or, visit the Brushy Creek Sports Park for baseball, softball, disc golf, hiking, biking, skateboarding and soccer!

Our Governor

2010-07-20T08:18:00.000-05:00

Cedar Park coupons

2010-07-19T12:58:00.000-05:00

GO HERE for lots of coupons to great places like Nothing Bundt Cakes, YoYo Yogurt & Row Paddle Brushy Creek!
They expire in December 2010.

Preschool

2010-07-15T22:58:00.000-05:00

Anybody in Cedar Park/Leander area interested in Pre-K? Merinda's friend Sharon Bishop is starting a preschool this fall Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 am to 2 pm.

Here is what Merinda says: "Sharon is the RS
president in the Leander Ward, lives in BHC, has 4 boys who are all in
school now, and is darling with kids. I'm signing Graham up for
Tuesdays and Thursdays with her and doing Excelencia on Mondays and
Wednesdays. Sharon is looking for more kids to sign up (only
kids entering KG next year)."

I couldn't get the flyer up here, so for more info 
Call Sharon at 260-8073 or 845-4698 
Email:  Sharon.h.bishop@sbcglobal.net

can NOT wait!!!

2010-07-07T21:21:00.005-05:00

July 9 - August 14, 2010

Thursdays-Sundays • approx. 8:30pm [at dusk]

bring a blanket to sit on

Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theater
Located in Zilker Park across from Barton Springs Pool
Admission: FREE!
[parking: $3/car]
http://www.zilker.org/

True Auto Repair

2010-06-24T09:32:00.003-05:00

450 N Bell Blvd
Cedar Park, TX 78613

(512) 257-2622
This place came highly recommended to me. The guy who recommended it said they are very trustworthy, honest, and wouldn't overcharge me. I went the other day to have my car fixed, so I am basing this review on one experience only. I felt like they were very honest and fair with me. He explained everything and at the end even took off the cost of one of the diagnostic tests. He also didn't charge me for the entire time my car was there, but I could tell from the bill that they truly only charged me for the time they spent actually working on the car.
It ended up costing less than I thought it would based on previous experience at other repair places.
He also gave me lots of tips about my car and cars in general. I felt he went out of his way to be helpful to me.
It is a family owned place. His wife and son were working there too, which I liked.
http://trueautorepair.com

Fight 4 Gen

2010-06-23T08:49:00.000-05:00

I don't know this family personally. They are friends of a friend, but Gen's story touched me so I am sharing with you.

She is hoping to receive a gastro pacemaker- which will cost at least $150,000. Please join our efforts to raise money for this procedure.
You can find out more about Gentrie at www.fight4gen.com, gentrieshungergame.blogspot.com, or her fight4gen facebook page.

This Saturday the Hansens will be holding a yard sale to raise money for Gentrie's gastro pacemaker.
The Hansens are also looking for:

-companies/individuals to match funds
-services for a silent auction
-donations from companies (surpluses, etc)
-anything else that could help!

****Contact: Brock Hansen 801-656-7720

Kawaii Shaved Ice

2010-06-22T21:13:00.000-05:00

So excited that Kawaii's has the option of vanilla ice cream with your shaved ice just like in Hawaii!! The ice is just as smooth as Sno Beach and Matsumoto (Oahu). If you live in north Austin, this is your solution so that you don't have to drive all the way downtown just for some shaved ice... um... not that I've ever done that. :)
It is $2.50 for a large.

113 N Mays St
Round Rock, TX 78664

(512) 388-3050

Lick It Bite It or Both

2010-06-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

I heard about this place from the Austin deals listed here: http://365austin.fanforce.com

Homemade cupcakes and homemade ice cream!
http://www.lickitbiteitorboth.com/

11101 Burnet
Suite 140-A
Austin, TX

Store Hours:
M-Sat: 11am-9pm
Sun: 12pm-8pm

512-835-BOTH
(2684)

Lockhart

2010-06-12T20:13:00.000-05:00

Thanks Emmy for this info. Sorry it took me so long to put it up! I appreciate these tips!

Lockhart is famous for BBQ. There are four bbq places in Lockhart....Smittys, Chisholm trail, Blacks, and Kruez. Also in June the annual Chisholm Trail Festival happens, lots of fun, rides, junk food, cookoffs, and a great concert with some big names. The cost to get into the festival isn't much and I feel it is family friendly. There is a little town just south called Luling, the watermelon thump festival happens in june or july. Again a nice small town festival and not very expensive

Keep your kids safe

2010-06-09T15:21:00.000-05:00

Have you seen this website: http://www.familywatchdog.us ?
You can search for registered offenders in your neighborhood. You may have checked this in the past, but since people move in and out all the time, it is worth checking periodically. It usually has the picture of the person and what they did.
I also checked the neighborhoods of my kids' friends and there were some there. So if you know me personally, that means you!

Plant a Tree for free

2010-06-08T10:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks Hip2Save for this info!
If you want to plant more trees in your state (or any state for that matter), head on over here and sign up to have a tree planted in the state of your choice thanks to Odwalla. Currently, Odwalla has planted over 44,000 trees in the United States. All you have to do is click here, provide your birth date and email address, and voila…a tree will be planted in your state! Plus, if you have plans to visit a start park this year, be sure to grab the Park Visitor Welcome Kit…participating state parks will have an Odwalla page inside which contains a special code that allows you to request an additional tree be planted!

Spicewood Valley Trail

2010-06-07T15:41:00.000-05:00

Picture & info from here.

Location/Parking:
183 South on Spicewood Springs Road
Right onto Scotland Well Drive
Right onto Middlebie Drive & look for parking
Start of Trail – Just Across the street from Mountain View Park

Fabulous Preschool/ Summer Camp

2010-06-03T12:47:00.001-05:00

I can't say enough good things about Excelencia Bilingual Preschool! My kids love it. Their Spanish has improved so much, and they have a lot of fun. They have a mothers day out program or a full time program.
Their summer camp starts June 7th. Check it out!

Cool House Tour

2010-06-03T06:21:00.000-05:00

The 14th Annual Austin Cool House Tour

June 6, 2010 10:00am-6:00pm

Take a preview look at the guidebook here!

The $15 guidebook/tickets are available at both Austin Central Markets.

Home Depot Workshop

2010-06-02T14:54:00.003-05:00

Home depot is offering up another awesome FREE workshop on Thursday, June 3rd from 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. This do-it-herself workshop focuses on eco-friendly gardening. Just click here to register.

Ballet Under the Stars

2010-06-01T13:43:00.002-05:00

June 4-5

Zilker Hillside Theater - Zilker Park

AMDE will be continuing their tradition of sharing an evening of dance under the night time skies with their annual production, Ballet Under the Stars at the Zilker Hillside Theater.

Ballet Under the Stars has been an Austin favorite for years.

It's FREE!

Children's Day Art Park

2010-06-01T10:08:00.001-05:00

Date & Time

Wednesday mornings, June – July
Gates open at 9:00 a.m. for activities and Instrument Petting Zoo
Performances begin at 10:00 a.m.
Art Tent activities until 11:30 a.m.

Location

Symphony Square – 1101 Red River St. (corner of 11th St. and Red River)

Admission

50¢ a child (Adults free when accompanied by a child)

2010 Performance Schedule
June 9 – Roy Lozano’s Ballet Folklorico
June 16 – Joe McDermott
June 23 – Staci Gray
June 30 – No Children’s Day … Happy July 4th!
July 7 – Lucas Miller
July 14 – Jon Emory and the Teddy Bear Picnic (Bring your bear!)
July 21 – Beto y los Fairlanes
July 28 – Biscuit Brothers

2010-06-01T08:30:00.002-05:00

Half Price Book's Feed Your Brain

Summer Reading Program

STARTS TODAY!!

You can print the form at home without having to go into the store.

Look at the tab on the left hand side that says "Downloads in English + Spanish"

Craig O's

2010-06-01T08:21:00.000-05:00

Homemade sauces, hand tossed dough, all our food is fresh and full of flavor.

This restaurant belongs to my friend's brother. I can't wait to try it!

Information

Location:: 5501 Balcones Dr.
Austin, TX, 78731
Phone:: 512-323-0660
Mon - Sun:: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm; http://craigositalian.com/

Free Family Film Festival

2010-06-01T07:45:00.005-05:00

Selected G & PG movies start at 10AM each Tuesday and Wednesday during the festival.

http://www.regmovies.com/nowshowing/familyfilmfestival.aspx

Here's the line up for the closest one to me:


06/08/2010-06/10/2010	Kit Kittredge: American Girl (G)
	The Spy Next Door (PG)
06/15/2010-06/17/2010	Charlotte's Web (G)
	Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs (PG)
06/22/2010-06/24/2010	Pirates Who Don't Do Anything (G)
	Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG)
06/29/2010-07/01/2010	Rugrats In Paris (G)
	Astro Boy (PG)
07/06/2010-07/08/2010	Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks Squeakquel (PG)
07/13/2010-07/15/2010	Doogal (G)
	Aliens In The Attic (PG)
07/20/2010-07/22/2010	Jonah: A Veggie Tales Movie (G)
	Monsters Vs. Aliens (PG)
07/27/2010-07/29/2010	Tale of Despereaux (G)
	Planet 51 (PG)
08/03/2010-08/05/2010	Wallace and Gromit (G)
	Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs (PG)

Athens Restaurant

2010-05-27T13:00:00.001-05:00

Live Belly Dancing on Saturdays 7-9:30pm
Free order of Dolmas with carry out order of $10 or more
Recommended by TX Monthly
M-F 11-3 Lunch specials $6.99

1540 Cypress Creek Rd
Across from Austin Community College
Cedar Park, TX 78613
http://www.athensgreekfoodaustin.com/

H-E-BUDDY

2010-05-26T18:17:00.005-05:00

I was at HEB and saw that they have a H-E-Buddy Summer Reading Program. I've heard of it but haven't seen the info. in stores before. They are located by the ball/sticker machine where the H-E-Buddy forms are for their kids rewards. The form states if you read 10 books, write them down, have an adult/parent mark them off, and send in the form (by Oct 1st) you'll get "cool prizes". On the form it does have a place to choice shirt sizes but it doesn't state what other "cool stuff" you'll receive.

Here is an online copy of the form in stores.

And WOW! I didn't know they had so many cool kids club reward opportunities. Like Healthy Buddy Kids, Max's Birthday Club (for your pet), and of course the H-E-Buddy Birthday Club.

CP Library reading program

2010-05-19T08:50:00.003-05:00

Cedar Park Library has their list of event for the reading program up and available on theirwebsite! Our family all participated last year for the first time and enjoyed it so much. Also, it gave us a little push to read during the busy summer months. Especially the kids who just want to play, play, play!

It begins Monday June 7th at 9AM. All ages are welcome to join, adults, teens, and kids. For each 5 minutes of reading (or listening to) a Cedar Park Public Library book, the participant marks off one character on their reading chart. Each kid’s chart totals 200 minutes, each teen chart totals 300 minutes, and adult chart totals 400 minutes.
When the reading chart is completed, it is returned to the library and exchanged for the next level’s reading chart. Each level contains a new chart, a colored cut-out to display in the library’s window and special incentive awards and coupons! Last years coupons/incentive awards included free ice cream at Baskin Robbins, free items at McDonalds, Pizza Hut, and Carl's Jr.

Some of their special events will include movies, special performer story times, and parties. Most popular are the special performers like Lucas Miler, Laura Freeman, and Mr Johnny. You always have to get there early to get into their shows.

The Big Bounce

2010-05-17T20:45:00.009-05:00

Thanks Mary for this info:
There is a new Bouncy House in Leander/CP. It is half price Mondays and Wednesdays making it $5 for 5 and up and $3.50 for 4 and under. If you get the community impact newspaper in your mail I have been told to look for a BOGO coupon! ;-)

The Big Bounce
1754 Bagdad Rd.
Cedar Park, TX 78613
(512) 528-0038
It is on Bahgdad just past the New hope intersection. Kind of behind that gas station on the corner. http://littleaustinite.com/2010/04/the-big-bounce/

This info is NOT on the website, but this is what I was told over the phone.
They give you a wristband and it's good all day so you could go home and come back later.
Hours:
10-7 weekdays
f,sat 10-8
sun 11-5

Renegade Craft Fair tomorrow

2010-05-14T08:05:00.016-05:00

RenegadeCraft.com
Austin’s 1st Annual event will take place Saturday + Sunday, May 15 + 16 from 11AM – 7PM each day. The Fair is being held at the Palmer Events Center.
The Renegade Craft Fair is always FREE to attend. Park on the street or a nearby parking garage is $7 for all day with entrances off of Riverside Drive and Barton Springs Road.

At RCF you’ll find all sorts of cool handmade stuff – including clothing, housewares, posters + prints, plush items, ceramics, jewelry, stationery + much more. Each Renegade Craft Fair draws hundreds of applicants, each individually juried so that only the best arts + crafts are available.
The fairs also feature food + drink, marching bands, entertainers, dj’s, raffles, workshops, photobooths and other festivities! Check out our photos to get an idea of what the fair has to offer.

Austin Neighborhood Quiz

2010-05-12T14:58:00.003-05:00

I LOVED this quiz. Apparently I live in the wrong neighborhood but that's ok. I still like it here. According to this I would like to live in central Austin near Burnet and Lamar. Hmm...
It also tells you where you would NOT fit in. The place I live was labeled as "Might not be worth your while (but you never know)." LOL!

Where would you fit in?
http://www.move-to-austin.com/austin-tx-neighborhood-quiz.html

DREAM! A Midsummer Night's Dream

2010-05-11T07:02:00.000-05:00

Austin Shakespeare's 25th Anniversary Season presents the story of young lovers who flee the conservative world to the forest where they are enchanted by the fairies. Simultaneously, a group of comic workmen including a mailman, a plumber and a waitress on roller skates are also beset by the fairies in the magical forest.

When: Thursday - Sunday, April 29 - May 30, 8PM (except Mother's Day May 9th, which will be 2PM)
Where: Zilker Hillside Theater
Price: FREE!
http://austinshakespeare.org/
Share the joy in Zilker Park with fairies, comics, lovers and a rock band! Experience the beauty of Shakespeare's poetry and delight of new songs reminiscent of the 1960's.

Summer of Fun 2010

2010-05-06T07:40:00.001-05:00

I hope to do at least half of these things this summer. A * means I MUST or I will CRY. Sorry I didn't do any links. What can I say? I don't get paid to blog, so I am allowed to get lazy. Oh and if you want to come with me to any of these things let me know so I can be sure to invite you when I go.
What are you most looking forward to this summer?

Deep Eddy Pool
Barton Springs
Barton Creek Greenbelt (Campbell/Camel’s hole)
*Zilker Hillside Theater’s production of Annie
*Kayak at Brushy Creek Park
*Round Rock Express Game Friday Night Fireworks
*Sno Beach Shaved Ice
Stand up Paddle Boarding (supatx.com)
Free Family Film Festival
Hamilton Pool
Sea World
Black Rock Park on Lake Buchanan
Emma Long Metro. Park on Lake Austin
Bike the Lance Armstrong Bikeway
Canoe on Lady Bird Lake
Little Lounge Lizards dance party
Kiddie Acres
Austin’s Children Museum
*Sprinkler park hopping
*Pool hopping
Library musical story times
Galveston OR South Padre Island
Childrens Day Art Park
*Library & 1/2 Price Books Reading Program

Wildlife Ranch

2010-05-03T11:54:00.001-05:00

African Safari. Texas Style

1 1/2 hours south of Cedar Park.
Adults $16.50
Kids 3-11 $8.50
under 3 Free
Open 362 days/year
Go to the website for discount off admission.
http://www.wildliferanchtexas.com

Pecan Street Festival today!

2010-05-01T13:28:00.001-05:00

Saturday, MAY 1: 11am - 10pm
Sunday, MAY 2: 11am - 8pm
free to get in. It's on 6th street (which was Pecan Street back in the day).
http://www.oldpecanstreetfestival.com/
Go enjoy the arts, crafts, music, food, and kids shows! I hear there is a petting zoo and carnival too.

Texas Greek Festival

2010-05-01T00:35:00.003-05:00

http://www.texasgreekfestival.com/
The annual Texas Greek Festival is a celebration of Greek food, music and culture right here in Austin. We welcome you to join the fun of a Greek "bouzouki" band, traditional dancing, authentic Greek food and delicious pastries. Bring the whole family and enjoy a day of festivities including

Live music and dancing
Greek food
Children's booths with painting, games, moonwalk
Clown and face painting

Where: AMOA - Laguna Gloria

picture from here

North Austin Rock Gym

2010-04-22T22:13:00.000-05:00

http://www.austinrockgym.com

8300 N. Lamar Suite B102 - Austin, TX 78753

$15/day pass

$5 for shoe and harness rental each

Austin Planetarium

2010-04-19T07:15:00.001-05:00

There was an interview with the Executive Director of the Austin Planetarium in this month's Austin Monthly. He said he hopes it breaks ground by 2011. I am really excited about all the great things coming to Austin in the near future! What a great city we live in.

Austin Nature Days

2010-04-14T00:40:00.000-05:00

http://www.austinnatureday.org/
Austin Nature Days offers a full month of activities to help you explore the wealth of natural wild landscapes and native habitats that are right in our back yard. Join us in April for a magical tour of Central Texas.

Annual Barsana Dham Mela

2010-04-02T00:31:00.001-05:00

http://www.barsanadham.org
Annual Barsana Dham Mela – a Traditional Indian Fair

photo taken from their website

The annual Mela includes these favorites:

Elephant Rides
Continuous Live Indian Music & Dance
Indian Snacks and Drinks
Roving Entertainers, Jugglers, Balloon Twisters and Clown Shows
Train and Pony Rides
Petting Zoo
Clothing, Jewelry in our Open Bazaar
Mehndi Designs and Face Painting
Inflatable Fun, Games & Prizes and more

Admission is only $5 per carload.

Concerts in the Park

2010-03-26T11:57:00.003-05:00

Brought to you by the City of Cedar Park - Parks & Recreation Dept. & Time Warner Cable.

DATE: May 7, 2010

BAND: Radiostar

LOCATION: Elizabeth Milburn Park, 1901 Sun Chase Blvd, Cedar Park

TIME: 7 pm - 9 pm

Who sang “She Blinded me with Science”, “Summer of 69” and “Jessie’s Girl”? If you know these answers, dust off your Rubik’s cube, pull on your parachute pants and start crimping your hair because we’re about to go back in time. The City of Cedar Park is bringing the 1980's back in 2010 for a special concert in the park on May 7th. So rummage through your closet and find your old pair of jellies, Converse shoes, Adidas sneakers or fluorescent high heels and enjoy dancing to the great sounds of the 1980s.

The Parks & Recreation Department is excited to bring Radiostar toMilburn Park. Radiostar was voted one of the best performing bands in Austin in the 2008–2009 Austin Chronicle Music Poll. Please choose the following link to listen to this high-energy band .

Bring your lawn chairs or blankets as there will plenty of area available, but don’t get to comfortable in your chair as you will be sure to dance the night away.

Food concessions will be available, but you are welcome to bring a picnic and your own ice chest. Glass containers are prohibited. Admission is free. For more information, call 401-5500.

Earth Day Party

2010-03-26T11:53:00.004-05:00

"Great to be Green!"

Saturday, April 17, 2010

11:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Cedar Park Recreation Center at 1435 Main Street

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

1:00 PM – Eco Show – Magic Show

2:00 PM- Cutting of H-E-B Earth Cake

2:30 PM - Environmental Puppet Show

3:00 PM - Eco Show – Magic Show

11:30 AM-4:30 PM – Other green day activities

include: *Arts & Crafts, Coloring Contest, Environmental Lab,

Movie theater, Wii game, books and puzzles, filming of children

environmental PSAs, Cardboard Castle, and other games and

prizes. There will also be an environmental tradeshow!

Special Appearances from Sparkles and the Chick-fil-A Cow

Event is free and open to the public.

*Children should bring the following items to the event from home to help recycle and for the

arts & craft activities:

 Plastic Water Bottles

 Tissue Paper Rolls

 Egg Cartons

Flyer online

Easter Celebrations

2010-03-26T11:43:00.002-05:00

CEDAR PARK's EGG-STRAVAGANZA

Bring your basket to hunt for over 79,000 pieces of candy, prizes and goodies. Take your photo with the bunny until 2:45 pm (bring your own camera). The egg hunt is for ages 12 and under. For more information contact (512) 401-5500 or e-mailparks@cedarparktx.us.

Location: Milburn Park -

1901 Sun Chase Blvd.
Date: March 28, 2010

Time: 2:00 pm

Fee: Free to the public

If you are interested in volunteering for the Spring Egg-Stravaganza, please contact Tara McAlister attara.mcalister@cedarparktx.us .

ROPUND ROCK's Easter Egg Hunt
The Easter Bunny will hop into Round Rock with lots of eggs and candy for children to hunt in this traditional Easter Egg Hunt for ages up to 12 years old at Old Settlers Park.

Easter gift basket prizes donated by Gourmet Gift Baskets.
Event prizes and balloons donated by Kaleidoscope Toys, Round Rock.

Children are divided by age groups for hunting. Each age group will have lots of candy to hunt and a chance to find special prize eggs. Only one parent per child for the infant thru 4 age hunt may enter the hunt area. Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled hunt time to get in line for the hunt.

When: Saturday, April 3, 2010
Where: Old Settler's Park
Fee: Free

Schedule: 9 a.m. infant-4 year olds
9:30 a.m. 5-7 year olds
10 a.m. infant-4 year olds
10:30 a.m. 8-12 year olds

Please leave the family pet at home.

Due to the number of hunters for the 0-4 year olds, we have two hunt times for that age group. Please hunt only once for 0-4 year olds to ensure every one has the opportunity to find candy and eggs.

I am sad to admit that our city isn't the best for the egg hunt. Round Rock is better because the split up the ages. If you go to the Cedar Park event I suggest getting there early because it will be over in less than 15 minutes.

1890 Ranch Farmers Market

2010-03-22T21:20:00.003-05:00

Opens Saturday, March 27, 2010

(will continue every Saturday)
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM

closed Christmas and Thanksgiving.

Facebook page

"Cedar Park Farms to Market is the weekly, rain or shine farmers market in Cedar Park. There will be lots of geat food, music and comraderie for our shoppers!

Location: 1890 Ranch Shopping Center, off Medical Parkway, east of the theatres and north of Gold's Gym"

This weekend

2010-03-12T21:42:00.000-06:00

Simon Kidgits Club Event: Easter Eggstravaganza
March 13 8:30-10am Food Court
(only $5 for a yearly membership and you get a bag of toys when you join, free Chik fil A every time you come to the mall, plus all the events)

Disney Store: The Princess & The Frog Craft, Dancing & Fun
2 sessions March 13 at 11am and 3pm

SXSW

Zilker Kite Festival was rescheduled for this Sunday

Austin Rodeo

Anything else? Have fun and enjoy this wonderful town and beautiful weather this weekend!

Get ready for summer!

2010-03-12T21:34:00.000-06:00

Emler Swim School is celebrating Spring by hosting OPEN SWIM in our

90 degree tropical water next week at the Anderson Mill location.  
Monday through Thursday
12 pm to 2 pm
$5 per swimmer, guests welcome

Call 512-342-7946

iswimemler.com

Music on the Plaza at Austin City Hall

2010-03-10T12:40:00.001-06:00

http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/music/live.htm

Next performance is 3/19/2010. Check the website for the schedule.

SXSW

2010-03-09T18:25:00.000-06:00

sxsw.com

Go to this post at thisislifeinaustin.com to find out when all the free SXSW parties are.

Group On and Living Social

2010-03-08T14:10:00.000-06:00

I wanted to let you all know about Group On and Living Social. You can sign up for their daily emails with local deals and discounts on eating out, goods, and services. It is free to join, optional to take part in the deals, and it is all Austin. They do have other cities available. They both also have ways you can earn their deals free through referrals. With Group On you get credit when you refer a friend and they make their first purchase. So click here and I'll get $10 Group On bucks. :) With Living Social if you buy something and refer 3 friends who buy it, then yours is free! Today at Living Social the deal is pay $5 for a $10 gift card to Spicy Pickle. Even if you don't ever purchase, I think it's a good way to see what's out there.
Enjoy!

Extreme Fun

2010-03-07T07:20:00.000-06:00

$5 on Tues/Thurs

www.extremefun-tx.com

Huge Inflatables
Foam Pit
Party Areas
Toddler Area
Free Wireless Access
Comfortable Seating

10401 Anderson Mill Road
Austin, TX 78750-2579
(512) 258-7800

Star of Texas Fair and Rodeo

2010-03-05T11:05:00.003-06:00

is 7 days away!!

I am super excited that this year we are going to a Pro-rodeo show and concert! We've only ever go to the fair grounds.

The Rodeo runs everyday from March 12-27th.

http://www.rodeoaustin.com

We are thinking about taking the whole family on the 19th. Here is what we are looking forward to...

BBQ Cookoff (donations appreciated),

Swine Sprints,

Kidstown for the petting zoo, P ony Rides,

and Winplush the Cowboy Monkey.

If you participate in the Save Your Bucks Day then you can get Free admission to the Fairgrounds! We will be wearing pink when we go! Other wise plan to pay ...
Adults (13 and up): $7.00
Kids (3 to 12): $4.00
Under 2 years: FREE

Parking is $6 per car except March 12 which is free parking and free admission plus $1 Rides!

Zilker's Theatre Production

2010-03-05T10:42:00.003-06:00

Yay! My family, especially my two little girls, LOVE Annie! They are doing audition this Saturday for ages 7 years and older. Look here for all the Audition details.

Performances will be Thursdays-Sundays, July 9-August 14, 2010

We are definitely going to attend a performance or two this summer!

Disney On Ice Worlds of Fantasy

2010-03-05T09:41:00.002-06:00

Cedar Park Center

Wed April 21-Sun April 25

Tickets $15-45

Order Online at Ticketmaster

DIsney Story Time Fun

2010-03-04T15:18:00.003-06:00

This month The Disney Store is hosting 3 great story time adventures.

On Saturday March 13th they are hosting a Ballyhoo in the Bayou (from The Princess and The Frog) story time at both 11 am & 3 pm. They'll have crafts, dancing and fun.

On Tuesday March 23rd at 3 pm is a Toy Story story time and coloring and then at 5 pm is another story and coloring time for Toy Story II.

On Saturday March 27th from 11 am-3 pm is a 3 year old and up egg-cellent adventure with egg-tivity sheets and prizes *while supplies last*

Don't miss this (again)!!!

2010-03-02T00:01:00.001-06:00

http://www.zilkerkitefestival.com

Sunday March 7, 2010 from 10 am to 5 pm
is Kite Day at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas

photo from here

Texas Monthly

2010-02-27T15:09:00.001-06:00

Enjoy Austin from the 360 Bridge lookout.

Go to texasmonthly.com/covercontest to make your own and enter the contest. (My husband took this picture of his mom.)

2010 Elections

2010-02-26T11:14:00.010-06:00

Today is the last day for early voting.
Primary election day: March 2, 2010
Primary runoff day: April 13, 2010
May uniform election date: Saturday, May 8, 2010
November uniform election date: Tuesday, November 2, 2010

For voter information click here.

Remember: If you don't vote then you aren't allowed to complain. :)

Please vote!

2010-02-26T11:07:00.000-06:00

TODAY is the last day for early voting in the primaries. I don't care who you vote for as long as you vote!!!! Don't underestimate the power of your vote. Official day to vote is Tuesday March 2nd.
That being said, I want to let you know that I truly believe Bill White is who Texas needs as governor.
Not too many people vote in the local elections, so your vote will really make a difference. You still have time to educate yourself and decide who will be making decisions that will impact your daily life!
Here is some non partisan information:
freevotersguide.org
www.lwvaustin.org

And here is my plug for Bill White, former mayor of Houston.
http://billwhitefortexas.com/
He was re-elected twice with 91% and then 86% of the vote! His priorities for Texas include improving the economy through education (cut the drop out rate, get people job training for jobs that actually exist) and scrub the budget through eliminating waste.
If you would like to see what he did while Mayor, go here.

Restaurants with playscapes

2010-02-23T17:11:00.000-06:00

Little Austinite has a great list of restaurants with playscapes here.

Check out central market, freddies place, and waterloo.

Green Mesquite BBQ on Barton Springs, very kid friendly, good service, chalk available in the patio area for the kids to draw on the ground and giant chalk board.

In North Austin, the MK Supermarket in Chinatown center (1/2 block south of the N. Lamar and Burnet intersection) is a great place to stock up on reasonably priced Asian sauces, spices and ingredients. Check out their cookie and candy aisle for treats - some great, and some just plain weird, and the kids are fascinated by the wall of live seafood tanks.

These reviews were found here.
Southpark Meadows: I had, shall we say, "issues" with finding good food and play in a shopping center, but this place rocks. The playscapes are HUGE and inventive – woven through enormous shade trees, with slides galores. There is a fantastic little area where water shoots up from the ground – so perfect for letting the little guys cool off. They even have live music outside, periodically. The best part, though, is that the playground is in the center of a bunch of GREAT restaurants, most of which have patio dining so you can watch them play while you linger over your food. Mama Fu’s does great pan-asian good, Austin Java is perfect for lunch or brunch, Waterloo Ice House will fill your burger needs, and at Jason’s deli you can even get a box lunch and sit on a bench under the trees. I35 and Slaughter, across from Supertarget

Patsy’s Cowgirl Café: Patsy’s playscape is outside of the dining area, but it is still a great help in burning off steam. Sometimes we get a drink and hang out while he plays and slides and runs around with the other kids that are bound to be there. The décor inside is really fun, and since we are usually there to see a band, we can usually work it to where he starts winding down and wanting dinner as the music starts. 5001 E. Ben White Boulevard, Austin TX 78741.

Sea World

2010-02-22T05:35:00.004-06:00

Sea World San Antonio opens this saturday! Who is getting a membership this year? I am debating. I'd like to know what friends I could go with. :)

Vote

2010-02-15T05:21:00.004-06:00

The first day of early voting is February 16th. That's TOMORROW. Official voting day is March 2nd.

Here is voter information: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/index.shtml

Wondering what is on the ballot? Go here: http://www.sos.state.tx.us/elections/voter/whatisontheballot.shtml

If you don't vote, don't complain. If you don't like the R or D candidate, vote for someone of a different party. You are not making a statement by not voting. You are saying that you don't care... And thus my assertion that you aren't allowed to complain. :)

Ongoing activities

2010-02-12T06:29:00.000-06:00

Has anybody been to any of these? What did you think?

Comedy Sportz every friday & saturday at 7:30pm
cszaustin.com

Family Yoga every saturday from 10-11am: free
rutamaya.net

Kids Club the last Saturday of every month. Free movie @ Alamo Drafthouse Cinema on south lamar.
originalalamo.com

Sculpture Tales the 2nd wednesday of every moth. Storytelling and arts & crafts.
umlaufsculpture.org

Chiquitito's Spanish Workshop through May 24th at the Childrens Musuem.
50 min spanish workshop
austinkids.org

Sources + January's to dos

2010-02-09T22:07:00.000-06:00

My favorite places to find out about what's going on in Austin:
The Chronicle (free at stores)
Austin Family magazine (free at grocery stores)
Austin monthly ($15/yr for a year subscription)
check the sidebar for more

Also become a fan of "Austin" on facebook or of "365 Things To Do In Austin, Texas."
Here is the latter's January To Dos:
1. Mozart’s Coffee
2. See Bob Schneider
3. Cap City Comedy Club
4. Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trails
5. Bridal Extravaganza
6. Austin Segway Tour
7. Visit University of Texas Co-Op
8. IMAX Theater at Bob Bullock Museum
9. La Fuente’s
10. Rudy’s BBQ
11. Blanton Museum of Art
12. Volunteer at Town Lake Animal Shelter
13. Austin Boat Show January 14-17th
14. Sprouts Farmers Market
15. Texas Basketball Game – Lone Star Shootout
16. Enjoy the view at the Oasis
17. Hey Cupcake!
18. Climb Mount Bonnell
19. Tuesday Trivia Night at a Local Bar
20. Kerby Lane Café
21. Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center
22. Peter Pan Mini Golf
23. Huts Hamburgers
24. Stubbs BBQ Gospel Brunch
25. Grow your own organic food & flowers at Sunshine Community Garden
26. Dog & Duck Pub
27. Taste of Austin
28. Indoor Rock Climbing
29. The Belmont
30. Le Garage Sale

Chinese New Years Festival Austin

2010-02-02T13:26:00.004-06:00

Chinese New Years Festival Austin
February 20-21, 2010
Chinatown Center
10901 N. Lamar BLVD
Austin, Texas 78753
Admission - FREE

http://chinatownaustin.com/

Cathedral of Junk

2010-01-28T13:01:00.001-06:00

Cathedral of Junk
4422 Lareina Drive
Austin, TX
(512) 299-7413
Official Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 9-6 pm (Call ahead to verify)
Admission: Free with donations accepted (Leave an object on his front porch. If it is unique enough, he may just add it to the Cathedral.)

Schlitterbahn in Cedar Park?

2010-01-27T17:34:00.000-06:00

Hurray!

http://www.news8austin.com/content/your_news/default.asp?ArID=265063

Lakeshore Learning Stores

2010-01-23T22:35:00.002-06:00

For Ages 3 and up
Every Saturday 11:00 - 3:00, every store!

Lakeshore Learning Store Website
Free Craft page/calender

**our closest store is by the Arboretum**

Cameron Park Zoo

2010-01-23T10:42:00.000-06:00

I've heard this zoo in Waco, TX is better than the one in San Antonio. It is about 80 miles north of me... less than 1 1/2 hrs.
http://www.cameronparkzoo.com

Adults(13+) - $9
Children 4-12 yrs - $6
Sr. Citizens (60+) - $8
Children 3 years old and under - free

Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. The zoo is open year-round. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day holidays, and the last Friday and Saturday of June. Phone 254-750-8400 for general information.

Dia de los Tres Reyes or Three Kings Day

2010-01-04T22:59:00.000-06:00

Spain, Mexico, and most of the Spanish speaking world will celebrate Dia de los Reyes (The Day of the Kings) on January 6th. Belgium, France, The Netherlands, Switzerland, and more celebrate the same thing, although a little differently, and call it Three Kings Day.

Side note: We are celebrating this at mutual this week. Make sure your daughter comes. :)

If you want to celebrate, here is a good article and here is where you can buy the cakes in the Austin area.
Fiesta Mart (where I plan to get mine. It seems to be the best price).
3909 N I-35 Service Rd, (512) 406-3900
Sells rosca de reyes (Mexican cake)

La Mexicana, 1924 S. First, 443-6369
Serves rosca de reyes

Sweetish Hill Bakery, 1120 W. Sixth, 472-1347
Traditional French galette des roi

La Madeleine, Various locations
French-style king cake (galette des roi) and Mardi Gras-style king cake
(I called the Arboretum location and they have both).

Since I grew up in Belgium, I am partial to the galette des roi, but like all things French, it is also more expensive.

2010 Year of Fun in Austin

2009-12-28T13:10:00.002-06:00

I made a list of events because last year I missed a few things I had been looking forward to. Not that I really plan on going to all of these, but this way I won't miss it just because I forgot! I resisted the urge to include a few day trips. This is solely Austin! To find more info, click on the corresponding month under Labels.

January

1^st Night

February

Chinese New Years (at Chinatown Center on N. Lamar)

March

Zilker Park Kite Festival

Rodeo Austin

Music on the Plaza of Austin City Hall begins

April

Annual Barsana Dham Mela

May

Cinco de Mayo at the Mexican American Cultural Center

Pecan Street Festival

Texas Greek Festival

Austin Symphony Summer Series begins

June

RR Express Baseball game, Friday fireworks

Blues on the green begins

Regal Cinemas Free Family Film Festival begins

Watermelon Festival

July

Zilker Hillside Theater

August

Austin Ice Cream Festival

Austin Kids Day

Bats at Congress Bridge (best month)

September

Pecan Street Festival

October

Texas Book Festival

November

Dia de los Muertos at the Mexican American Cultural Center

Native American Pow Wow

December

48^th Annual production of The Nutcracker at The Long Center

Ice skate atop Whole Foods

More Lights

2009-12-15T08:22:00.003-06:00

Community Impact has an article about good Cedar Park light displays.
Find the following on Google maps:

2410 Sharon Drive
Anna Court
2004 Marysol Trail
Castleguard Way
Horizon Park subdivision

37th street Christmas lights

2009-12-14T23:43:00.000-06:00

37th St. between Guadalupe and Home Ln.

The center of the lighting display is just east of Guadalupe. Walking or driving through is free.
I hear they are doing their part to keep Austin weird. You won't get your typical light displays!

Where do you take your guests?

2009-12-10T08:21:00.006-06:00

My husband's family is coming into town for 3 weeks over the holidays. Here is my list of things we can choose from to do. Maybe it will give you an idea of what to do with your guests.

FREE:
Mt. Bonnell
Dino Pit at Austin Science & Nature Center
Blanton Museum on thursday
Barton Creek Greenbelt
feed ducks at Brushy Creek Park
walk/bike along Town Lake
Zilker Park botanical gardens
Harry Ransom Center (copy of gutenburg bible, 1st photograph, and other cool/random things)
Trail of Lights
AMOA- Laguna Gloria (takes donations)
1st Night on the 31st

Cost:
Wed night Austin Childrens Museum ($1 min donation per person)
Hula Hut- dinner on the lake
Austin Museum of Art on 9th- under 12 are free
Phil's Ice House - fun dinner for kids
Teo's Gelato $2 Tuesdays
UT Tower $6 per person
La Feria Mariachis on at Lamar location thurs
Farmers market wed or sat (entrance and parking are free)
rooftop skating at Whole Foods. $10 includes ice skates rental
Mexic-Arte Museum

free sample music together classes at Heartsong Music

2009-12-08T20:37:00.002-06:00

This week and next week Heartsong Music is offering up some free sample classes at their studio and also around town!

2700 West Anderson Lane, Ste. 320 , Austin

Heartsong Music hosts an Open House and free sample classes.

Thanks, Austin Savvy's website for information!

2nd weekend's events

2009-12-07T08:57:00.023-06:00

Friday 11th
34th Annual Armadillo Christmas Bazaar
11am-6:30pm
2nd & Trinity
armadillobazaar.com

9th Annual Children's Nutcracker
austin-conservatory-arts.com

Mainstreet Bethlehem is still going on
fbcburnet.org

Saturday 12th
The Georgetown Kids Book Swap
for every book you bring in, you get a ticket for a replacement book.
12-5pm
entry fee is one new/like new book donated to Blue Santa Christmas
Georgetown Library, upstairs
Georgetownkidsbookswap.com

Cocoa & Cookies w/ Mrs. Claus
for kids age 2-11
hot cocoa, cookies, craft project, sing along, story time with Mrs. Claus before Santa comes
9, 10, 11am and 12pm
limited space so sign up beforehand
Twin Lakes YMCA
ymcagwc.org

Santas Workshop
music, games, inflatables, art projects, Santa Cluas
bring an unwrapped gift for Blue Santa
6-8pm
Heritage Oak Park
cedarparkfun.com

Sunday 13th
Zilker Park Trail of Lights & Tree Lighting
tree lighting 6pm
www.ci.austin.tx.us/tol/

This weekend's events

2009-12-02T08:57:00.000-06:00

Some of these events happen on more than one day. Check the websites for details. If you have done any of these in the past, please let me know if you liked them or not.

Friday Dec 4:
Holiday Tree Lighting 6:30-8:30pm
FREE
Santa, caroling, carriage rides
Heritage Oak Park. cedarparkfun.com

Main Street Bethlehem 6-9pm
FREE but donations accepted
Burnet. fbcburnet.org

Saturday Dec 5:
Annual holiday Sing Along, Downtown Stroll, and Tree Lighting 6-9pm
FREE but please donate a jar of peanut butter
south steps of Capitol building
downtownaustin.com/holidays

Christmas Market Festival 10-4pm
live performances, a visit from St. Nikolaus, imported German Christmas items for sale (nutcrackers, pyramids, smokers)
germantexans.org

36th Annual Dickens on The Strand 10am-7pm
kids under 7 are FREE
voted best holiday event in Dec by TX Monthly
Galveston. galvestonhistory.org/dickens

University of TX Tower Tours
$6. Reservation required
12-5pm on the hour
utexas.edu/txunion

Kids Workshops for ages 5-12
All Homedepots
FREE
homedepot.com

47th Annual production of The Nutcracker
The Long Center
$15 and up
balletaustin.org

Rooftop Skating at Whole Foods downtown

2009-11-30T10:35:00.001-06:00

The rink opens Friday, November 27^th and is open every day except Christmas through Sunday January 17^th. Tickets are $10 per person, which includes skate rentals.
Skating hours are 10:00am - 10:00pm, with the last skating session starting at 9:00pm.

Whole Foods Flagship
525 Lamar Blvd.
Austin, TX 78703
(512)476-1206
www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/lamar

Special Hours:
December 24^th - 10 - 7
December 25^th - closed
December 31^st - 10 - 7
January 1^st - 10 - 8

Sessions begin each hour on the hour and run for 50 minutes, with a 10 minute ice maintenance time to follow.
Tickets will be available for the same day skating sessions on the plaza, beginning at 9:00am. Limit 10 tickets per guest. Absolutely no advance day ticket sales will be offered.
Tickets are only available at Whole Foods Market downtown Sixth and Lamar location.
40 people maximum capacity on ice. Skate sizes range from Junior 9 to Men's 14. Because it is a small rink, we only have a limited number of skates in each size. We discourage planning large parties for this reason.
We are not offering private party bookings - for a large event please contact our Catering Center at 512-542-2209.

Caffe Teo review

2009-11-25T08:06:00.001-06:00

I finally went to Caffe Teo, and it is GOOD. The gelato is as good as Italy's. My favorites were coconut, chocolate, and pistachio. They were really nice and let me try almost all of them. Next time I'll get Texican Vanilla. Mmmm.

If you are ever near 38th street, I highly recommend stopping by.
$2 Tuesdays!! if you pay in cash.

Oh and in case you didn't know, gelato isn't as bad for you as ice cream. Because of how slow they churn it, they don't need to use heavy cream like ice cream does. I think it tastes better too!

The northern location no longer exists. They really should update their website.

Persuasion

2009-11-09T10:41:00.003-06:00

My brother has an interview in Austin! He is coming for 4 days in December and in that time I want to convince him that he needs to move here. He likes being active and being outdoors. Where should I take him?
Where do you take someone you are trying to persuade that Austin is a great place to live? What was it about Austin that convinced you to move here?

He is also interviewing near where my other brother lives, so the fact that a sibling is here is not enough.

Oh P.S. I know a lot of you check my blog and don't comment. Now is the time to comment! My brother and his cute wife and baby living in the same town with me is on the line. :)