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THE KIDS & PETS ISSUE A R T S + C U LT U R E

N EW BEGI N N I NGS: ACTO RS DAV E & O DET TE AN NABLE O N TH EI R GROWI NG TE X AN FAM ILY

AU G U S T 2 022

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August 2022 PUBLISHER

Joe Kerby | joe.kerby@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Sarah Ivens | sarah.ivens@citylifestyle.com

LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Kids Are Alright!

INTER NS

Michelle E. Facio, Kendall Franz AD DESIGNER

Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee

Everything changed when I became a mom - or mum, as I’d say in my native British tongue. And not just my ability to have lie-ins or a long soak in the bathtub without being interrupted. Nor just my look, which took a definite dive into a quick, easy and comfy direction: gym clothes worn regardless of exercise plans; high heels thrown to the back of the closet for the foreseeable future; hairstyle less a style than an unbrushed pineapple chucked atop my head each morning. While my exterior took - what some might consider - a bit of a slide south, my interior had never been so alive - with love, with purpose, with hopes and dreams for the future. Yes, in the short term, parenting can seemingly restrict what you can do and where you can go, but a look a bit further out, and the world you were starting to view cynically or lethargically becomes fresh again. New! Because now you share it with people who fill your heart. My children, William and Matilda, who I’m photographed with in my Editor’s photo during a recent family trip to Destin, Florida, make going to the park fun, movie nights cozy, and family discos something I look forward to each week. Yes, parenthood is confusing, exhausting and expensive, but seeing the world through their eyes is pretty awesome. And it means that every day is full of hugs, laughs and memories made. In this issue we celebrate all that Austin has to offer for your family, however your family looks - and regardless of whether your babies are the human kind or the more furry variety, like some of the adorable animals featured in the magazine this month. Happy loving and happy reading!

CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Jennifer Birn | jennifer.birn@citylifestyle.com, Stephanie Coultress O'Neill, Kari Lavelle, Jamie Dorobek, Kendall Franz CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Jenna McElroy

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Proverbs 3:5-6 ATX Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Austin area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in ATX Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

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AUGUST 2022

inside the issue The Kids and Pets Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

08 Where to unleash your inner kid

Lifestyle Letter

Mental Wellbeing

Local Limelight

Home Update

Pet Friendly

Pet Care

Travel Journal

Hometown Hero

Fashion Forward

Our guide to the best places in Austin to regress - in a good way!

18 Pump Tracks to Peacocks: Our Five Favorite Parks in Austin An Austin author shares her outdoor wisdom every parent needs!

28 Happy Ever After, Austin!

Children's writer Kari Lavelle shares her favourite books by Austin authors to make bedtime better!

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Jenna McElroy Actors Dave and Odette Annable share their Texas family life

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Capturing flight at iFly

Where to unleash your inner kid ARTICLE BY KENDALL FRANZ

Austin's a great place to disappear into nostalgia and your happy childhood memories... here's our top ten! Be the boy who never grows up at Peter Pan Mini Golf

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | ARTS + CULTURE

I scream, you scream, we all scream for the Museum of Ice Cream

1. THE MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM The Museum of Ice Cream is your childhood dream come to life. Wrapped inside a bubblegum pink exterior, this museum is essentially one giant playground that’s bursting with color—and ice cream! Slide into a swimming pool full of sprinkles, ride on giant animal cookies, run through a forest of bananas, and eat plenty of sweet treats, including boozy milkshakes and specialty f lavors from Amy’s Ice Creams—the possibilities are endless! 11506 Century Oaks Terrace #128, Austin, TX 78758 museumoficecream.com

4. PETER PAN MINI GOLF All children, except one, grow up, but this Austin landmark will make you feel like you never did. Founded in 1948, this family-owned and -operated business has brought magic and adventure to Austinites for 72 years and counting. Peter Pan Mini Golf features two 18-hole courses complete with whimsical statues and figurines, including a giant Peter Pan and a 22-foot T-Rex that can be seen overlooking the street. It’s a playground for friendly competition that’s been enjoyed by people of all ages for decades. Plus, it’s BYOB! 1207 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78704 peterpanminigolf.com

2. IFLY It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No, it’s you learning how to fly! If your chosen superpower would be the ability to fly, book a flight at iFLY Austin, which is Texas’ first indoor skydiving facility. It uses a huge, wind-powered tunnel to simulate freefalling, so you can experience the adrenaline rush and get ready to save the day without needing to jump out of an airplane. 13265 US-183, Suite A, Austin, TX 78750 iflyworld.com/austin

5. OMG SQUEE Cuteness meets pop culture at this adorable dessert shop. OMG Squee serves 100% gluten free Asian American pastries, desserts, and drinks, including mochi donuts, macarons, soft serve ice cream, and boba. All sweet treats are made in-house, from scratch and are guaranteed to make you smile. Check out OMG Squee’s Instagram (@squeeclub) to see their list of rotating flavors, all of which will have you squealing in delight. 4607 Bolm Rd., Suite A, Austin, TX 78702 squeeclub.com

3. THE THINKERY Get your thinking caps on! Thinkery offers tons of hands-on indoor and outdoor activities to help adults and children power their brains and discover a love for learning. It’s a great place for curious minds of all ages to experiment with interactive STEAM-focused (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) exhibits. 1830 Simond Ave., Austin, TX 78723 thinkeryaustin.org

6. LAKE TRAVIS WATERLOO ADVENTURES If you’ve ever wanted to know what it’s like to be on the TV show Wipeout, now’s your chance. Lake Travis Waterloo Adventures is a floating inflatable water park and obstacle course with a view. It’s a truly humbling experience meant for all ages and will most likely make you feel very unathletic. But honestly, there’s nothing funnier than watching your friends face-plant as they try to run across an inflatable balance beam. Your stomach will hurt from all the laughter! 14529 Pocohontas Trail, Suite A, Leander, TX 78641 waterlooadventures.com CONTINUED > AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / AUST I N T X

7. THE DINOSAUR PARK The Dinosaur Park is Texas’ very own Jurassic Park without, you know, all the loose dinosaurs wreaking havoc and trying to eat you. This outdoor museum features realistic life-size dinosaur exhibits set along a beautiful nature trail that will transport you back to when these creatures ruled the earth. The Dinosaur Park is a family-owned business that prides itself on being both fun and educational. Further your Jurassic experience by checking out the fossil dig, playground, picnic area, and gift shop. 893 Union Chapel Rd., Cedar Creek, TX 78612 thedinopark.com 8. DREAMLAND Spend the day at Dreamland, a Hill Country beer garden complete with exciting amenities including a mini-golf course, pickleball courts, playground, disc golf course, and splash pad. Dreamland also has three different stages for live music and the entire venue is filled with artwork, from funky sculptures to gorgeous murals and mosaics. In addition to fun, Dreamland is also devoted to sustainability, so you can live the dream and save the Earth. 2770 US-290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 dreamland.us 9. LITTLE LONGHORN SALOON’S BINGO SUNDAYS Sundays at the Little Longhorn Saloon are dedicated to one of Austin’s favorite (and strangest) games — Chicken Sh*t Bingo. Anyone who wants to participate purchases a $2 ticket, then everyone gathers around a caged board outside. The chicken is placed on the board, and when she poops on a number, the person with that number wins and is awarded with money. It’s the kind of weird thing only a kid would dream up, but with drinks and live music, although children of all ages are welcome. 5434 Burnet Rd., Austin, TX 78756 thelittlelonghornsaloon.com 10. PUBLIC STAR PARTIES Spend a night underneath the stars with the University of Texas astronomy department. Star Parties have been a longstanding tradition at UT for decades now. Space-loving Austinites and Longhorns filter in throughout the night to observe the moon, planets, and bright star clusters that are in range. There are two telescopes on campus — one is in Painter Hall (PAI) and the other is on the roof of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Building (PMA). Visit the department’s website for viewing times and directions. PMA: 2515 Speedway, Painter Hall: 103 W 24th – both Austin.

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | ARTS + CULTURE

Dream of your youth at Dreamland

Place your bet on a lucky chicken at an Austin landmark AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / AUST I N T X

Meet the A nnables

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNA MCELROY

DAVE, ODETTE, CHARLIE AND A BABY ON THE WAY...

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

Picture perfect. But, behind the camera, Dave, Odette and Charlie Annable are refreshingly real. When we arrived at the Hill Country home they bought two years ago - which Odette had a heavy hand in gut renovating they didn’t ask us to take off our shoes or be careful on the white carpets. Instead, Odette opened the door and said, “Make yourselves at home, Dave’s out getting bagels.” Like many actors in Austin, the Annables’ moved to Texas during the pandemic. And, like most recent transplants, they exude Southern charm and hospitality rather than any Hollywood stereotypes and have quickly integrated themselves into the fabric of the city. You may know Dave best from his five seasons and 110 episodes of Brothers & Sisters (on which his then fiancé Odette made a 5-episode guest appearance), and Odette from her characters on House or Supergirl, but these days they can both be found on locally filmed Walker, Texas Ranger. Although, the move preceded the casting. We caught up with Dave and Odette, who have been married a dozen years, and their daughter Charlie, who will be seven in September (and Dave says, “is a future Meryl Streep”), for a photo shoot, chat on life in Austin, family (which be a party of 4 when their baby arrives in October), working together and more.

ODETTE: It was the very best move that we could have made for our family. We are immersed in nature and really enjoying our little family unit and our surroundings. It was after about a month of living in Austin that I got the call to be on Walker. It all felt very meant to be.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO MOVE TO AUSTIN? DAVE: It was like day 60-something of quarantine In Los Angeles and my sister who lives in Temple, Texas was sending photos of her family out in nature, fishing, running around and not under house arrest with helicopters flying overhead looking for people gathering. We decided to rent a house on Belton Lake for a few weeks to get out of the city and started looking for a place to rent. That rental market had dried up but we were able to find deals on something to buy back in June 2020. It was a no-brainer to be out of Los Angeles and close to my family.

FAVORITE THINGS ABOUT AUSTIN? ODETTE: I love that you are immersed in nature in the city and especially just outside of the city. We love walking Lady Bird Lake, hopping on a kayak in the middle of the city and enjoying the view. The food in this town is unreal. The music is off the charts amazing. This city has a very cool vibe and you feel it when you step off the plane. We live in a suburb just outside of the city and we see our neighbors fishing in the pond near us all of the time, we see deer roaming freely and turtles crossing the road. It feels idyllic for a child to be raised and we are feeling the gratitude

WHAT WERE YOUR INITIAL THOUGHTS ON AUSTIN? ODETTE: It was a big leap of faith. Coming from California, and being born and raised in California, my initial thoughts were, ‘What in the world is this weather?’ Turns out, it’s just weather. Seasons. I’m acclimating, thankfully. And, very obviously, Texans are some of the most genuine and kind people I’ve come across. HOW DO YOU LIKE LIVING IN AUSTIN? DAVE: I LOVE IT!! I love the people here and the feeling of community is something that I didn’t know I was missing. We adore our neighborhood, our neighbors and feel like we have chosen the perfect spot to raise our sweet daughter. ODETTE: I still have homesick feelings every so often, but truly, it is a wonderful city filled with grounded and real people. We love living in Hill Country and exploring everything that this city has to offer. There is something for everyone here and it just has a very special magic about it.

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YOU’RE WORKING TOGETHER ON WALKER, AND MET ON BROTHERS & SISTERS – WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT WORKING TOGETHER? DAVE: We were engaged already when Odette appeared on Brothers and Sisters. She originally didn’t want to do it but I begged her to do it so we could one day show our grandkids. Turns out we’ve ended up working together quite a bit over the years so I’m sure they’ll be sick of watching us on screen with one another. Walker is such a gift down here. To both have the opportunity to work on a show where you love the people involved, love the show itself and love the fact you can shoot at home in Austin and have some sort of normal life in this crazy business is such a gift. We know how lucky we are. ODETTE: I love how infectious Dave is. Whenever he walks into a room, you notice his presence. He’s a genuinely kind and excitable person. He pays attention to you when you’re talking to him and is usually the funniest person in the room. He’s got a great positive attitude. Opposite of me. Joking, but not really. I’m more of a pessimist, I think we balance each other out. It’s been so special having him work on the show this season. He brings great energy and great talent to this otherwise potentially unlikeable character. We feel incredibly grateful to be working where we live which is a rarity in this business. YOU SOMETIMES DO COUPLES THERAPY INSTAGRAM LIVES (WHERE ONE OR BOTH OF YOU USUALLY HAVE A RANCH RIDER IN HAND). WILL YOU CONTINUE THOSE? ODETTE: We would love to continue those videos, but potentially in a different format. We are brainstorming what that may look like, so stay tuned! IN ONE YOU TALKED ABOUT DOING ACCOUNTABILITY CHALLENGES, DO YOU STILL DO THAT? ODETTE: Keeping each other accountable is something that really works for us. We always

say that what works for us, may not work for everyone. We are always striving to learn about one another and try grow with each other. Ultimately, I want Dave to challenge me to be the best version of myself. It’s not as easy for me when I’m holding myself accountable. The buddy system works! YOU PLAYED SPOUSES WHO BODY-SWAP ON FANTASY ISLAND –WHAT WOULD YOU EACH LIKE THE BEST AND LEAST IF YOU SWAPPED PLACES FOR A WEEK IRL? DAVE: My favorite part would be gaining boobs. There’s not really a close second. Least favorite would probably be everything else. ODETTE: The thing I would like best if I were to swap bodies with Dave is having someone to cook for me and of course to pee standing up. The thing I would like least is the lack of sleep that I would get (he’s a terrible sleeper) and the allergies! BEST THING ABOUT BEING PARENTS TO A GIRL? DAVE: So many things. One for sure is I get to be the example of what type of man she will look for one day. There is nothing like that responsibility. Daddy/daughter cuddles are everything but wrestling together is actually more our speed. ODETTE: Because I have had some life experience, I am really looking forward to passing on the lessons that I’ve learned to her. HOW HAS THIS PREGNANCY BEEN? ODETTE: My pregnancy, like most, has had its ups and downs. There are some really great days and then some days when staying in bed forever feels like the best option. Ultimately, I do not take any second of this pregnancy for granted. It took years for us to get here and it was not an easy road. I am mostly excited to see Charlie take on the big sister role. She has been a magnet for babies ever since I can remember and she is so filled with love about this new addition to the family.

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | A RTS + CULTURE

I READ YOU WERE PRETTY HANDS-ON RENOVATING AND DECORATING YOUR HOUSE, HAVE YOU DONE THAT BEFORE? DID YOU ENJOY IT? ODETTE: YES!! I absolutely loved it. Interior design is definitely one of my passions. The way I keep my home and entertain are important to me. This was the first time that I have been through a renovation of this scale and although it came with its own frustrations, I would do it again in a heartbeat. Next up, I’d love to build our next home and work closely with an architect and choose all the finishes and design the house. QUICK QUESTIONS FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN AUSTIN? DAVE: Right now Aba is leading the way. It’s so good! There are so many. We LOVE the food in Austin. ODETTE: I haven’t been to enough to really give an educated choice here, but I would say, Comedor, Jeffreys, and Red Ash

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FAVORITE BOOK? DAVE: Right now it’s more about my favorite author, Ryan Holiday. He wrote “The Obstacle is the Way,” “Ego is the Enemy” and “Stillness is the Key” which are books that introduced me to a philosophy called stoicism which has helped in my life immeasurably. ODETTE: “The Secret History” FAVORITE QUOTE? DAVE: “We cannot choose our external circumstances, but we can always choose how we respond to them.” -Epictetus ODETTE: It’s more of a question to live by… What would the person you intend to be do next? IF YOU COULD GUEST STAR ON ANY SHOW IT WOULD BE… DAVE: Does praying for more Lee Dutton “flashbacks” on Yellowstone count? ODETTE: Black Mirror IF YOU COULD HAVE ONE SUPERPOWER IT WOULD BE… DAVE: The ability to never hit a golf ball out of bounds. ODETTE: Going back in time.

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Pump Tracks to Peacocks: Our Five Favorite Parks in Austin The Austin author of 'Creating Really Awesome Free Things: 100 Seriously Fun, Super Easy Projects for Kids' shares her wisdom.

ARTICLE BY JAMIE DOROBEK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LIGHT BY IRIS

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Jamie and her family have fun at Bull Creek

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / AUST I N T X

From peacocks to pump tracks, beaches and boulders, there is an abundance of nature in Austin, but it wasn’t until the pandemic that I fully embraced the great outdoors with my kids. I was forced to put my career as a digital content creator on hold to handle childcare and virtual school for our then 4and 6-year old’s. I quickly realized being held hostage in our house was a one-way ticket to burnout. We started taking daily adventures to new to us Austin nature spots. The kids were climbing trees instead of our furniture and I was thriving on sunshine (and coffee). I fully understand the anxiety that comes along with taking little ones on nature outings alone. Are there bathrooms? Is there shade? Where do I park? My hope is this list of our five favorite parks gives you the confidence to explore a new Austin park with your kids this summer. EMMA LONG METROPOLITAN PARK My kids love packing up their shovels, buckets, and floats and heading to the beach at Emma Long Metropolitan Park. Emma Long is a 1,142-acre park on the shore of Lake Austin and includes a sandy beach area situated between to two wooden docks to protect the swimming area from boaters. There is also a long stretch of juniper and oak tree shaded shore line on either side of the “beach”. My son loves cannon balling

H OM E U P DAT E | ENTERTAI NME NT

off of the dock into the refreshing water of Lake Austin. Picnic tables and newly renovated restrooms make Emma Long a great spot to set up for a family beach day. Note: You will need a reservation Friday- Sunday. ALLIANCE CHILDREN’S GARDEN According to my kids, Alliance Children’s Garden is the best playground in Austin! The two-acre park boasts views of downtown and include a unique slide section, climbing walls, a sand pit, large swing section, music features, and the tallest blue climbing structure I’ve ever seen. There are clean bathrooms and multiple swinging benches for caregivers to relax. Bring towels and bathing suits because the kids can’t resist Liz Carpenter Splash Pad next door! BULL CREEK DISTRICT PARK Bull Creek is a great place to cool off with kids in the summer heat. There are 3 parking lots off of Lakewood Drive, but we prefer the parking lot in the middle. My daughter loves finding treasure at what she calls “shell beach” and my son can’t get enough of waterfall slide. Bull Creek is also where my kids found a love of rock climbing. There are large boulders to climb in the water and surrounding the creek. The water is always chilly, but the flow and depth depend on rainfall.

On top of the world at Bull Creek

MAYFIELD PARK & NATURE PRESERVE Mayfield Park is 23 acres of magical gardens, nature trails and is home to dozens of peacocks, divided into two sections, two acres inside of the stone wall and 21 acres outside of the stone wall. Inside of the stone wall is a cottage (closed to the public), koi ponds, palm trees and lush gardens. Note: Look for peacocks in trees, on rooftops and on the porches of the cottage. The 21 acres outside of the stone wall are scenic hiking trails with multiple creek crossings and a kid-built tee pee that is typically our destination. I always recommend Mayfield Park as a great spot to hike with little ones. The only con to this park is lack of bathrooms. If you’re looking for more adventure after Mayfield Park, take the quick 5-minute car ride to Mount Bonnell for the best view of Austin. 9TH STREET BMX PARK If you ask my 8-year-old son where he wants to go on any given free day there is a 100% chance that he will want to go to the “Dirt Track”. 9th Street BMX Park is a great spot for bike riders of any age and ability to discover a new way to ride with a beginner pump track and plenty of room to explore and try jumps of varying sizes. 9th Street is almost entirely shaded by oak trees, but beware there are no bathrooms on site. Don’t forget a bike helmet and bug spray. After exploring 9th Street consider checking out Shoal Creek trail. There is an entrance to the trail from 9th Street BMX Park directly under the 9th Street bridge. For more tips and advice on fun things to do with your kids, follow @thecraftblog or go to creatingreallyawesomefunthings.com

Free family fun at Bull Creek

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People + Their Pets

SOME OF OUR FAVORITE AUSTINITES FURRY FAMILY MEMBERS ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN

“Before you get a dog, you can’t quite imagine what living with one might be like; afterward, you can’t imagine living any other way.” – Caroline Knapp In the United States nearly 40 percent of families have at least one dog, and the vast majority of those families consider their dog a son or daughter. We like to pamper our pets, and how could we not when they provide us with such unconditional love. The only problem with pets is that their life spans are shorter than ours – and sometimes it would be nice if they could speak our language so we knew exactly what was on their mind. We caught up with some Austinites to find out what they would ask their pets (dogs, cats - and llamas!). if they could indeed talk.

Karena Dawn & Bobby Gold Tone It Up co-founder, mental health advocate, NYT Best-selling author of The Big Silence and founder of a non-profit with the sameshares six Pomeranians with entrepreneur husband Bobby Gold. PET’S NAMES: (Pictured) Kiwi, Kodiak, Tiki and Skunk BREED: Pomeranians ON PET SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS: Skunk had an account, @hiimskunk. It’s actually still active, but she’s been distant from the gram. She is quite witty and we hope she has a social media come back, while she still has her bite. IF MY DOGS COULD TALK, I WOULD ASK… Why do you not stop barking? Do you constantly have a sore throat? MY PETS LOVE… Squeaky toys and more Squeakies. BEST THING ABOUT BEING A DOG-OWNER? Unconditional love.

P E T F R IE N D LY | L IFE + CULTURE

Karena with 4 of 6 of her Pomeranians

Brad, Ashley & Nella Stuver

Brad and Ashley Stuver Austin FC’s indomitable goalie Brad Stuver, Ashley Stuver, a health coach for Found, and their pup Nella came to the city for soccer, but quickly made Austin home. PET’S NAME: Nella BREED: Beagle Mix ON PET’S SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT? Doesn’t have one, Nella likes to keep a low profile IF MY PET COULD TALK, I WOULD ASK... Who do you love the most, and why is it Brad? MY PET LOVES…Ice cubes, snuggling with Brad, and her stuffed toy, Lele.

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Sazan & Stevie Hendrix Sazan and Stevie Hendrix are hosts of The Good Life podcast, are founders of S+S Goods, content creators and parents to daughters Valentina and Amari and their dog Sweetie – who has many talents, but does not drive. PET’S NAME: Sweetie BREED: Golden Retriever IF YOUR PET COULD TALK, WHAT WOULD YOU ASK? “Who’s your favorite family member?” SWEETIE LOVES: peanut butter, cuddling on the couch and wrestling daddy!

Sazan and Sweetie

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Jordan with Rosie and Yoshi

Jordan and Adrian Grenier Recently married animal lover Jordan Grenier and actor, activist and entrepreneur Adrian Grenier are filling their farm with a dog, chickens, lots of love – and llamas. Meet two of their new additions. PET’S NAME: Rosie and Yoshi BREED: Llamas DOES YOUR PET HAVE A SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT? Keep an eye out for them @earthspeed IF YOUR PET COULD TALK, WHAT WOULD YOU ASK? Please Cuddle Me. MY PET LOVES… To roll around in the dirt

Christy Carlson Romano Christy’s been busy! Christy and husband Brendan Rooney are masterminding projects with their production company and Christy is helming two podcasts -The Vulnerable Podcast and I Hear Voices Podcast. They’re also prepping to move in to a dream house they’ve patiently waited to be built with their two daughters – and cat. PET’S NAME: Jumanji BREED: Bengal Cat IF MY CAT COULD TALK, I WOULD ASK… Are you happy? We have two toddlers who love him (a little too much), but if we ever leave town he is miserable. He truly feels like he is a part of the family. WE’VE HAD JUMANJI…Sine Santa brought him when he was 4 months old for my cat-obsessed daughter Isabella. He’s about 2 now. MY CAT LOVES…Hunting scorpions, scaling our tall wood beams and snagging toddler table scraps

Christy Carlson Romano and Jumanji AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / AUST I N T X

Your Dog's Concierge

All My Pets Services is a company to get amped up about

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER BIRN

P E T CA R E | PR OFESSION AL S E RVI CE S

Ashley and Chris Martin started All My Pets Services (AMPS) in Austin in 2014. They provide pet care visits, dog walking and bathing and grooming – in the comfort of your fur baby’s own home. We caught up with Ashley to learn more. WHAT LED TO STARTING AMPS? The story of AMPS is the story of our family. As a former veterinary technician, I have a professional background and volunteer history steeped in animal care. My son, a preteen in 2014, has significant needs, and I wanted to utilize my skills set and apply it to something that would allow me to care for him, support our family and also feed my soul. My partner, Chris, in his faith in our dream, quit his job to help provide 24/7 care for my son, and we started AMPS. Chris actually used it as an opportunity to propose. When trying to think up a name for the company, he said, “Well, you could always go with ‘Ashley Meadows’ Pet Services, or ‘AMPS’. That way, if you decide to change your name to Martin, you wouldn’t have to change the letters.” After we married, I did indeed change to Ashley Martin’s Pet Service (AMPS). HOW HAS THE BUSINESS EVOLVED SINCE 2014? During the pandemic, our business came to an absolute halt. We used that time to re-evaluate where we were heading and completely rebranded, changing the name to All My Pet Services (AMPS) to convey the multiple types of service we currently offer and to encompass the new services we intend to offer in the years to come. DO YOU HAVE A PLACE WHERE YOU DOGSIT OR IS IT EXCLUSIVELY HOME VISITS? For now, our services specialize in care visits to our AMPS family homes. One of the major benefits of in-home pet sitting is that, because they’re home and comfortable in their own space, many animal companions really enjoy our visits, are happy and relaxed from the start and ready for naptime by the time we leave.

DO YOU DO THE WASHING/GROOMING IN THE OWNER’S HOME? We currently have the option of in-home services, or to have us transport to a separate facility for the service and return them home. As we expand the ultimate goal to include a mobile grooming vehicle f leet, as well as opening our first brick-and-mortar location. YOU DO ‘PET SITTING’ AT OWNER’S HOMES. CAN OWNERS GO OUT OF TOWN AND HOME CARE VISITS BE ENOUGH, OR IS IT JUST FOR OWNERS OUT FOR THE DAY? Both! We space out our care visits throughout the day to provide consistent, structured care and the family receives updates with detailed notes and pictures with every service. HOW MANY DOGS DO YOU HAVE? My family has a young Great Pyrenees named Samwise. He’s a goofy, happy-go-lucky spot of sunshine in our lives. We like to say he’s the real hero in our story, completing our family and providing endless joy and love. IF YOUR DOG COULD SPEAK, WHAT WOULD YOU ASK? I would ask him to help teach me to live in the moment, the way he does. Every day is his best day: what a gift! ANYTHING YOU’D LIKE TO ADD? AMPS is a grassroots, family-owned company dedicated to enriching the complete pet care experience for the people and families who entrust their companions to our multifaceted service. We are eternally grateful for the love, guidance, and support we have received through the years from our mentors, family, friends, and from the incredible people who have signed on with the AMPS family. We are a small business with big dreams, and we are excited to continue to grow with our beloved ATX. Find more at: https://allmypetservices.com

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / AUST I N T X

The Austin Authors

ARTICLE BY SARAH IVENS

Writing Their Own Happy Ever Afters LOCAL CHILDREN'S WRITER KARI LAVELLE SHARES HER FAVOURITE BOOKS BY AUSTIN AUTHORS TO MAKE BEDTIME BETTER

Austin children’s author Kari Lavelle loves walking and loves good causes. These two things combined in her debut picture book, We Move the World, a nonfiction picture book about how the everyday actions of kids is connected with historical people that have changed the world. “Launching this book last year was really exciting but the pandemic made it a little trickier. Fortunately, I’m really grateful to enjoy the support from the wonderful Austin community of writers and illustrators.” Here Kari lists some of her favorite books for kids from Austin authors to help you not only support local, but read local!

CONTINUED >

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | ARTS + CULTURE

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / AUST I N T X

Author Kari with her pick of great local children's writers

T R AV E L J OU R N A L | ARTS + CULTURE

ONE BIG DAY! by Anne Wynter (illustrated by Alea Marley) for ages 0-4 “This board book is so adorable - a great gift for the littlest readers.”

LIGH TS FANTASTIC

DOLLY: THE STORY OF DOLLY PARTON AND HER BIG DREAM by Robyn McGrath (illustrated by Ellen Surrey) for ages 4-8 “Dolly Parton! Need I say more?” DOROTHY THE BRAVE by Meghan P. Browne (illustrated by Brooke Smart) for ages 4-8 “You must read this extraordinary story about an ordinary person.” DUSK EXPLORERS by Lindsay Leslie (illustrated by Ellen Rooney) for ages 4-8 “If I could capture my childhood summer memories into a book, this would be it.” GEMSTONE DRAGONS by Samantha Clark, for ages 7-10 “This fantastic series is great for beginning readers!” SISTERS OF THE NEVERSEA by Cynthia Leitich Smith, for ages 8-12 “This is a fantastic retelling of the full-of-adventure classic Peter Pan.” Kari Lavelle is the author of We Move the World (HarperCollins). She has always had a love for words: as a kid reading books, as a speech pathologist helping children communicate, and now as a writer creating stories. She moved to Austin in 2000 to attend graduate school at the University of Texas. Learn more about Kari and her books at karilavelle.com.

WE BRING OUR EXPERTISE, IDEAS, AND U N I Q U E P R O D U CT S TO S H O W YO U W H AT

LIGHTING CAN DO

I N WAYS T H AT YO U N E V E R I M AG I N E D CALL TO SCHEDULE A COMPLIMENTARY DESIGN CONSULTATION

5 1 2 -4 5 2 -9 5 1 1 L I GH TS FA N TA ST I C.COM AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / AUST I N T X

ARTICLE BY SARAH IVENS

WELCOME TO KIDVILLE THE MUELLER DISTRICT HAS BECOME A MECCA FOR WALKABLE FUN FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS ALIKE!

H OM E TOWN H E R O | ENT E RTAI NME NT

THINKERY The Thinkery is one of the country’s premier children’s museums. Thinkery is filled with interactive, scientific learning experiences that teach without the preaching that makes learning dull. Prepare to be soaked – which might be a good thing on a hot August day – because the interactive water play area is amazing. 1830 Simond Ave thinkeryaustin.org MUELLER LAKE PARK A wonderful place with wide open spaces for sports and games, kids and pets – and lots of food trucks and ice cream spots dotted around nearby - Mueller Lake Park is the perfect place to spend a day with your favorite cute little things – your children or puppies, watching birds, fish and turtles splash in the sun. 4550 Mueller Blvd

COLLEEN’S KITCHEN You’ve worked up at appetite, and help is at hand at this cool spot with great cocktails for caregivers, and arguably the best salted chocolate chip cookies in Austin for anyone with a sweet tooth. 1911 Aldrich Street colleensaustin.com B.D. RILEY’S Right next door to Colleen’s is this hub for sports fans of all ages – especially European soccer, where the chanting and cheering really makes this a fun weekend place to people watch. They also have a “Leprechaun’s menu” so parents can kick back with a pint and enjoy the game while keeping their kiddos nourished and happily quiet. 1905 Aldrich Street bdrileys.com LILLA & BETH Shop local and fabulous at this boutique and Aladdin’s cave for little ones who love trinkets and toys. They offer a fab selection of cuddly animals and coloring books as well, making it a great place for family shopping. You can never start attacking your winter holiday gift list too soon, right? 1911 Aldrich St #130 shoplillabeth.com Austin's take on an octopus's garden!

THE MUELLER DISTRICT

Treasure trove of local gifts

JESSIE ANDREWS PARK AND OCHO THE OCTOPUS Jessie Andrews Park is a culture vultures happy place, with many different activities and attractions for kids and teens – and big kids who love nature and art, including Ocho the Octopus, a 20-foot-tall art installation meant to inspire childlike wonder in the park. 2601 Philomena St Dixiefriendgay.com/gallery-ocho THE ORIGIN HOTEL If you tire yourself and your family out with all the fun in the summer heat, no fear. A great new hotel, Origin Austin, opened this year, and is a walkable rest stop for a staycation. With its beautiful restaurants (serving old-fashioned comfort food, every bite filled with nostalgia) and cool yet welcoming bars, it’s the perfect place for some relaxing family time - for pets and kids alike. Everyone is welcome! Some rooms feature bunk beds with capacity to sleep up to six, and Kids Adventure Kits are available on request, with sleeping bags and tents for a cool glamping experience. 1825 McBee Street originhotelaustin.com AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / AUST I N T X

STEPH'S SELECTS: KIDS EDITION All available at (the new!) Estilo Kids ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE COULTRESS O'NEILL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TODD O'NEILL

FASH ION F OR WA R D | L IFE + CULTURE

BOUTIQUE MED SPA IN NORTH CENTRAL AUSTIN Hydrafacial Microneedling Laser Hair Removal Cosmetic and Paramedical Tattooing IPL ALL BODIES WELCOME 737.610.5000 Moonage-Daydream-Esthetics.com

V Moonage.daydream.esthetics 9415 Burnet Rd, suite 105, Austin, TX 78758

AUGUST 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / AUST I N T X