Dripping Springs’ premier fine jeweler offering hand-selected diamonds, custom creations, and heirloom worthy pieces. We bring luxury, artistry, and heartfelt service to our community and beyond. DIAMONDS | GEMSTONES | BRIDAL | PEARLS | DESIGNER JEWELRY | CUSTOM DESIGNS
www.drippingdiamonds.com
@drippingdiamondstx
Text: 214-813-4250 | Call: 512-829-4186
Led by Lara Dudek, MD, Board Certified Ophthalmologist, we’re proud to welcome Dr. Marilyn Kelinske, MD and Dr. Christina Payne, OD to our team.
From Dripping Springs to the Greater Austin area, we’re expanding access to advanced eye care, while staying grounded in the personal approach our patients trust.
A home is only as strong as the hands that nurture it. We build with lasting quality and timeless design so you can focus on the moments that matter. Alkire Construction: Building for the women who do it all.
Lauren Clark Photography
Three elevated experiences designed to restore energy, renew skin- while simplifying the way you care for yourself:
The Reset
Energy • Renewal
Super Myers IV + MICC-B12 Series + Marini Resurfacing Pads
The Restore
Skin Health • Refinement
Erbium Laser + Marini Solutions Skin Management System
The Radiance
Confidence • Effortless
Laser Hair Removal Package + Rosé Hydration Drip
We’ll help you choose exactly what she needs
DESIGN + BUILD FAMILY-OWNED CUSTOM HOMES AND STABLES
Ford Design
B u i l t w i t h P u r p o s e f u l D e s i g n www
F O U N D A T I O N S
O F H O M E
t h o u g h t f u l l y d e s i g n e d f r o m d a y o n e
Everything you ever wanted to know about parapets. Starting with, “what’s a parapet?”
ĒSO is an Austin-based, woman-led architecture design studio that believes that great design starts with clarity, collaboration and trust. We take the time to explain the why behind every decision, balancing ambition with reality to translate technical details into plain language and practical choices. Because even the loftiest of dream projects needs to be rooted in reality. Our open, transparent process gives you the space to find your space. How many stories is your story? Let’s find out.
AN ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN STUDIO WHERE THEORY MEETS PRACTICE & COLLABORATION IS AT OUR CORE
Injectables,
SHIVANI, RN
Patriots’
Exceptional Digestive Care, Close to Home
For more than four decades, Austin Gastroenterology has been Central Texas’ trusted leader in GI and liver care. Since 1980, we’ve built the region’s largest gastroenterology group on a foundation of expert, compassionate care. Our Dripping Springs clinic, which opened in 2018, is led by board-certified specialists Dr. David Kim and Dr. Adam Hafemeister. From preventive screenings to advanced endoscopic procedures, we combine leading-edge technology with a highly personalized experience because prevention is powerful, and peace of mind is priceless.
Specializing In Colon Cancer Prevention | Gerd and Reflux Management Irritable Bowel Syndrome | Inflammatory Bowel Disease | Liver Disease
David Kim, MD
Adam Hafemeister, MD
Everything to Everyone
Like many women, I’ve found purpose in the art of trying to do it all. On any given day, women serve as the Uber driver, the maid, the short-order cook, the personal assistant, and the life coach—all without even stepping into our “day job.” It’s a balancing act that requires agility, patience, and a whole lot of grace. To the multitasking masterminds and moms, I see you.
Just the other day, I found myself standing in the kitchen, answering emails while prepping for dinner, reminding one child about practice, helping another find their keys, and mentally running through everything still left to do. There is a reason my inbox looks the way it does.
It was at this moment I realized that I had been everything to everyone else that day, but I hadn’t really checked in with myself at all. If I’m being honest, this is true of most days. And I think if we’re all being honest, ladies, that feeling isn’t rare. What continues to amaze me is how seamlessly women still move between it all. We can be strong and soft, driven and nurturing, focused and flexible, sometimes all within the same hour. It’s not always easy, but it is remarkable. And it’s something worth celebrating.
This Women’s issue is exactly that. It’s a celebration of the women who shape our community in meaningful ways—across generations, through seasons of joy and hardship, and in the everyday moments that often go unseen. Within these pages, you’ll meet women building legacies, navigating loss and healing, reinventing their lives, and pouring into future leaders. You’ll also find reminders to enjoy a frilly cocktail or gather your friends for a getaway because, after all, girls do wanna have fun.
Their stories reflect the many ways women lead, serve, create, and show up for others, proving that success is as diverse and dynamic as the lives we live.
My hope is that as you turn these pages, you feel inspired, not just by what these women have accomplished, but by all the ways they show up. And maybe, when you're waking up early to get ready before everyone else, you’ll pause, even briefly, to remember who you are in the middle of it all.
Stacy Berg, Connie Chung, Christy Jensen, M.D., Sarah Lambie, Annie O'Brien, Weslea O'Connor, Katie Pecaro, Karen Rivera, Micah Wiener
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Isabella Aldrete, Stacy Berg, Kristen Hafner, Erika Knox, Summer Miles
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Jenna Crawford
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell Learn
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Garrison Bros hosted a long-table supper club with bourbon, food, and community connection 2: 12 Fox Beer was featured in Texas Monthly, highlighting local businesses and community experiences 3: Peaches Coffee invited the local community to a hands-on coffee-making class 4: DSISD hosted its annual Tiger Madness event celebrating Special Olympics athletes 5: Drip Skateboarding hosted a skateboarding camp, teaching kids skills, confidence, and core values 6: DSHS softball opened its season with multiple wins after last year's semifinal run. 7: Ford Design celebrated a standout 2025 with features in major national publications
Born and raised in Dripping Springs, Dr. Shane Whisenant, is proud to be providing trustworthy, quality dentistry to his community. At Gatlin Creek Dentistry, our patients can experience better living through comprehensive dental care and improved oral health. Please come see us for a
Hours: Monday - Wednesday 8-5, Thursday 8-3, Friday Appointment Only
www.gatlincreekdentistry.com | 5128942358 13341 W Highway 290, Suite 402 Austin, TX 78737
Vireo Group Partners With Ranches At
Vireo Group of Compass, led by Jack Clinard and Liam McArdle, is now representing the Ranches At brand. This family-driven partnership brings a strong vision and local expertise to one of the area’s most anticipated developments, setting the stage for continued growth in the Hill Country. Compass.com/agents/the-vireo-group Scan
Terrace Club Wins Best of Weddings 2026
The Terrace Club has been named a 2026 Best of Weddings winner by The Knot, thanks to outstanding client experiences and glowing five-star reviews. This recognition highlights the venue’s continued dedication to creating unforgettable celebrations for couples in the Hill Country. TheTerraceClub.com
Field to Fire Returns to Hog Heaven
Hog Heaven hosted its second Field to Fire dinner featuring Next Level Chef contestant Tim “Barefoodtim” Laielli and his team. The evening brought the community together for a thoughtfully curated Hill Country dining experience, with more to come as the series continues this summer. HogHeaven.com
Photography by @carrinlewis_photography
Photography by @timelesstx
Photography by @kimber.collective
The Sweet Spot
SOUTHERN SWEETS CANDY CO’S PAIGE POWELL
FEARLESSLY TURNS GRIEF INTO GROWTH
When Paige Powell and her family moved to Dripping Springs 11 years ago, she arrived with a dream of land, farming, and homesteading.
She found the perfect spot off Hamilton Pool Road to bring her vision to life. It wasn’t a farm yet—just land and a small house—but it was full of possibility.
Along with her husband Corry Reiling and their three children, Brooklyn, Brax, and Beckett, she built a working homestead from the ground up. What started with a few chickens evolved into raising turkeys, pigs, cows, chickens, and even honeybees. They sold meat, eggs, milk, and cheese, learning and growing as they went.
For years, the farm buzzed along, becoming the center of their family, especially during difficult seasons. It provided a safe haven when Beckett, then 4, was diagnosed, treated, and healed from a brain tumor. “That was a big journey to go through,” Paige says. “And the farm was such a place of peace for us through all of that.”
But in 2023, everything shifted when the family faced a devastating loss. At just 44 years old, Corry was diagnosed with late-stage cancer and passed away a few months later.
In the wake of that tragedy, Paige made the difficult decision to step away from the farm she had built and loved. Managing the land and animals on her own while raising three active kids was no longer sustainable, so she sold the animals and moved closer to town and her children’s schools and sports.
ARTICLE BY MELISSA SVOBODA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLA ALDRETE
As time passed and Paige moved through her grief, she felt a pull toward something new. “I needed to do something with my time,” she remembers. “I knew I wanted to find something to do for myself again.”
Through sleepless nights, Paige often found herself scrolling, and social media drew her toward viral videos of colorful candy mixes—big bowls of bright gummy candy being layered and packaged. The idea stuck: “Corry loved candy,” she says. “I’ve never met a man who loved candy more than him.”
Paige and her best friend Marianne Gibson began experimenting at home with candy creations, adding their own twist by stacking gummies, marshmallows, and other chewy sweets on a skewer. “We just started playing around with it, and it was adorable,” she says.
What started at the kitchen table quickly expanded as they designed customized kabobs for different holidays and themes. “It really grew organically,” she says. “We put it out in the world and it just took off.” Today, their candy kabobs—available in an endless array of colors and creative motifs— are shipped all over the country.
As the business grew, candy began to fill their homes. “It was crazy—the candy was everywhere,” she says. To accommodate the chaos, the friends-turned-business-partners found a cozy house off Old Fitzhugh Road with enough space for both production and a storefront. That’s where Southern Sweets Candy Co. came to life in June 2025.
Bright and full of whimsy, the shop is packed with candy in every color of the rainbow. Shelves are lined with jars and bins of goodies, from nostalgic favorites to hard-to-find treats, alongside freezedried pickles, cheesecake bites, trending Swedish sweets like Bubs, and of course
“I don’t have a fear of failure; not trying is failure. I think being vulnerable is a superpower. I’m not afraid to try.” - Paige Powell
“What really matters in the end are the relationships you form with your people. When you’re walking someone to heaven, or when you’re getting walked to heaven, you just want your people there.”
- Paige Powell
their signature candy kabobs. To add to the fun, Southern Sweets also sells balloons and popular “dirty sodas.”
Beyond the sweets, the shop has become a gathering place, offering party packages and hosting story times, arts and crafts, and pizza nights. “A big goal of opening the shop was to be community-driven and community-focused,” Paige says. In this spirit, she looks for ways to give back to Dripping Springs, providing kabobs for school fundraisers and candy coupons for teachers to reward their students.
For Paige, the business fits into her life in a way few jobs could. As a single mom with three busy kids, Southern Sweets allows her to balance school schedules, sports, and daily life while building something of her own. Plus, her kids love bringing friends to the shop, and Brooklyn works there during the summers, making it a true family affair.
Beginning something new after losing so much wasn’t easy for Paige, but her willingness to take risks made it possible. “I don’t have a fear of failure; not trying is failure,” she says. “I think being vulnerable is a superpower. I’m not afraid to try.”
Her other superpower is motherhood. “Being a mom has taught me how to be resilient; it’s taught me strength; it’s taught me how to pivot,” she says. Through her example, Paige hopes her children see how to show up for people, work hard, and move forward with courage.
Just as importantly, the children have watched their mom navigate her journey of love and loss with perspective. “What really matters in the end are the relationships you form with your people,” Paige shares. “When you’re walking someone to heaven, or when you’re getting walked to heaven, you just want your people there. That’s it.”
Looking back, Paige recognizes how much she has changed through heartbreak and healing. “I wish nobody had to go through this, but through the things I’ve learned and the ways I’ve grown because of the grief and trauma—and how I’ve continued to
go on—I’m a much better version of myself than I was before this happened to us.”
It’s wisdom she shares openly, knowing others will face their own turning points. “Take it one day at a time,” she says. “If you’re having a bad day today, that doesn’t mean tomorrow will be a bad day.”
And when it comes to starting over, her advice is boldly compassionate: “Don’t be afraid to go for it. Don’t be afraid to fall down. If you do, it’s okay. Show yourself grace. Just get back up, keep going.”
SouthernSweetsCandy.com @southernsweetscandy
Girls’ Trip
From Small-Town Charm to City Sophistication, This Curated Road Trip Delivers Shopping, Spa Time, Cocktails, and Connection
ARTICLE BY KATIE PECARO
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HOTEL EMMA AND SUNNY’S ALL DAY BRUNCH AND BAR
Cheers to the perfect girls’ weekend away. Pack your bags with coordinating outfits and sunnies because we are blending small-town charm in Boerne with elevated city experiences at The Pearl in San Antonio.
Before heading out of Dripping Springs, grab a coffee from Mazama to sip while you enjoy the views on your peaceful, hour-and-20-minute drive to Boerne. Your first stop is a local favorite—Richter Bakhaus— known for its delicious, gigantic cinnamon rolls, served warm and best shared with friends.
From there, settle into an exceptional brunch at Sunny’s All Day Brunch and Bar. Opt for the patio seating overlooking the river. Share a mimosa tower and enjoy a variety of breakfast classics like waffles, poached eggs, and crepes.
Spend the late morning wandering around Boerne’s Main Street, featuring a variety of boutiques and vintage shops. You’ll definitely want to check out The Pearl Antler, Hey Love, Celeste, and Ella Blue. For beautifully restored vintage antiques, pop into Flashback Funtiques with functioning glass soda bottle machines and pinball machines.
Once you’ve explored Main Street, don’t forget to take pictures at the scenic Boerne sign before making your way to San Antonio, where you will check in to Hotel Emma. This five-star, two Michelin Key hotel is a historic landmark that has been lovingly restored with a luxury, boutique feel. Another fabulous option is the Thompson Riverwalk. This modern hotel has a lounge vibe and a large pool deck with seasonal DJs. Take a moment to unpack and prepare for dinner. You’ll want to dress to impress as you start with cocktails at Sternewirth’s, a unique hotel bar that pays homage to its brewing roots. Then keep it simple and walk to dinner nearby. Ladino offers a vibrant Mediterranean menu, while Southerleigh Fine Food & Brewery delivers elevated Southern cuisine with a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction.
After a restful night, room service will deliver a complimentary coffee at Hotel Emma before you head out for a short walk to Bakery Lorraine at the Pearl. Get your pastries or seasonal fruit to go so you can stroll the amazing farmers market, which is open on weekend mornings.
From there, transition to your comfy clothes and a slower pace at Loma de Vida Spa or the Omni Mokara— both offering relaxation areas and amenities where you can be pampered and melt away the stress of life.
After spa time, head to Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen for a casual and entertaining evening filled with colorful photo backdrops and interesting
Photo courtesy of Sunny’s All Day Brunch and Bar
Photo courtesy of Hotel Emma
Pack your bags because we are blending small-town charm in Boerne with elevated city experiences at The Pearl in San Antonio.
drinks. For a more elevated evening experience, head to a rooftop bar like The Moon’s Daughter at the Thompson. Savor delicious mezzes and craft cocktails while taking in the San Antonio skyline as the sun sets.
On your final day of your road trip, try a Pilates class or brunch together before enjoying a last dose of shopping. Explore the Pullman Market right at the Pearl—a thoughtfully curated market space perfect for an easy stroll with your friends.
After checkout, spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the rich culture of San Antonio. Take a river cruise, walk to the San Antonio Museum of Art, visit one of the many missions, or experience the Alamo. And since you can’t leave town on an empty stomach, delight in a late lunch of Mexican cuisine at iconic and vibrant Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia.
As you make your way back to Dripping Springs, put on your road trip playlist, settle into the drive, and take in the beauty of the Hill Country. Cheers, ladies!
Katie Pecaro is a local travel consultant with KK Travels Worldwide. She lives in the Dripping Springs area and would love to help you plan your next road trip or vacation. Reach her at Katie.Pecaro@kktww.com.
Photo courtesy of Hotel Emma
Photo courtesy of Hotel Emma
The Story
ARTICLE BY CONNIE CHUNG PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLA ALDRETE
Local Creative Helps Small Businesses Bring Their Brands to Life
Behind the Story
On any given day in Dripping Springs, you might find me filming a home tour framed by Hill Country views, capturing behind-the-scenes moments in a jewelry store, or mapping out the next social media campaign for a growing local brand. For me, every business has a story. My work is bringing those stories to life online. Long before I began working with entrepreneurs in the Hill Country, I was helping shape the early days of social media itself.
My career started in graphic design, where I developed a strong eye for visual storytelling that still influences how I approach content today. That creative foundation eventually led me into the fast-paced world of tech startups. I spent more than a decade working in marketing and community-building roles with companies like Yelp and Facebook during a time when social platforms were rapidly transforming the way businesses connected with customers.
Over the years, I developed a reputation for helping brands translate complex ideas into stories people actually want to follow.
At Yelp, I worked closely with local businesses while also building a thriving community of creators, influencers, and tastemakers who helped spotlight the best restaurants, shops, and experiences in their cities. It was an early lesson in how authentic voices and trusted recommendations can shape local culture and drive discovery.
Later, at Facebook, I continued focusing on community building and helping startups navigate the evolving landscape of social media and customer engagement.
After relocating from the Bay Area to Texas, my work began to take on a more personal direction. I was drawn to the slower pace and strong sense of community in the Hill Country, and I found myself wanting to help local entrepreneurs tell their stories in a meaningful way.
Today, based in Dripping Springs, I partner with small business owners across real estate, wellness, beauty, and lifestyle to shape their social media presence and brand storytelling. My work includes managing accounts for Dripping Springs realtor Karen Rivera and jewelry designer Molly Phillips, as well as supporting marketing and storytelling for Elysian Head Spa.
I especially love collaborating with women entrepreneurs and using social media as a way to amplify the stories of women-owned businesses in the Hill Country. I also work with local brands as a content creator myself, sharing Hill Country finds and experiences with my audience.
Friends and collaborators often describe me as a connector within the local business community. Whether I’m introducing entrepreneurs, working
on creative campaigns, or helping brands share their stories, I believe strong communities are built through shared experiences and authentic voices.
Rather than approaching social media as a series of posts or promotions, I see it as a form of storytelling and creative strategy.
When you understand the person behind a business, the content becomes natural. It stops feeling like marketing and starts feeling like connection.
When local businesses share their stories authentically, something powerful happens: A brand grows. A business thrives. And a community becomes a little more connected.
@conniec
Dear Mom...
For Mother’s Day, the women of DSCL wrote letters to our moms—the women who raised us, guided us, and still show up when we need them most. Here are our real, heartfelt expressions of gratitude for the love, the support, and all the little things moms do that mean so much, even long after we’re all grown up.
Karen Rivera Annie O'Brien
To the woman who went into labor with me on her birthday…
I can say thank you for so many things, but one of the biggest ones is for breaking cycles. The cards you were dealt were not ideal, from a bumpy childhood to being a very young mother. Yet you set an example for me to be kind, loving, hard-working, and to always do what’s right. To be appreciative, thankful, and see the value in homemade gifts. You showed me how to mother my own family, nurture through nourishing meals, maintain a home, work hard, but also—and very importantly—to never skip your own hair appointment.
Thank you, Mama. Happy Mother’s Day.
And to my own boys, being your Mom is my favorite title. Isaac, my bonus boy with an old soul: Your faith inspires me. Cruz: No one can make me laugh harder; your personality and smile is infectious. Zane, my sweetest babe with a zest and love of adventure: I love watching you enjoy this life.
Mom,
As I (too quickly) pass through each stage of parenting, my gratitude and respect for you as a mother increases dramatically. Looking back, you seemed to do it with such grace and ease and, most importantly, left me with fond childhood memories filled with love. I don’t remember many of the details, but I know it was good, it was happy, and it was filled with love. I pray I leave my children with the same. Since I don’t say it enough, thank you for all you did then and all you do now. I have loved seeing you enjoy this chapter as Nonnie and look forward to seeing your relationship with all my kids grow over the years. Even though we may be states away, you stay active and present in our lives, and that is the greatest gift.
Love, Annie
Whitnie Strauss Isabella Aldrete
Mom,
Thank you for carrying the baton and equipping me so that I can one day pass it on. Strength is in our blood, but I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without you showing me the way.
You, Aunt Terry, Aunt Gwen, and Grandmommy instilled something powerful in me. It’s the ability to stand tall when life feels heavy, to keep moving forward when the path isn’t clear, and to show up for the people we love with unwavering determination.
That legacy is something I try to instill as I raise Cora. I remind her often that resilience, character, and determination matter. And when that doesn’t work, I ask her, “What would Mimi say?”
My hope is that one day Cora will feel that same fire in her spirit and understand where it came from. And when the time is right, I’ll hand her the baton.
With love and gratitude, Whitnie
To have a present mother whose love is truly unconditional is a blessing in its own. But to find a best friend in the woman who raised me is a complete miracle. You are everything in a woman I strive to be: confident, unshakable, warm, motherly, witty, and empathic to a fault. Not exaggerating in the slightest, you are the bestest friend I have had and will ever have. I can’t wait to read fantasy novels and watch trashy reality TV together for the rest of our lives.
And to the mother of my mother, who raised us all, you are and have always been my favorite. The struggles of my life are nothing compared to the trials and adversity you have endured and I am forever grateful for your strength. Mama, you are quirky, tough, intelligent, and full of free spirit. I will forever see you in book stores, the garden, astrology, monopoly, Pokémon, little stores, and much more.
Morgan Synoground
My mom is my favorite person. She is kind, soft, and the encouragement I’ve needed my entire life. She is everything I want to be as a mom, and two months ago she stood by me as I stepped into my own motherhood journey. Thank you, mom, for showing me the path to being a good mom.
To my sweet girl,
I celebrate my first Mother’s Day by thinking about how I never knew love like this existed. Being your mom has given me a glimpse of God’s love for us. You have made my world brighter and more sacred.
I promise to always be your listening ear, your comforting touch, and the safest place in the world. I promise to give you a life full of magic and whimsy. I pray you have a bold faith, you grow kind, and you always know how loved and adored you are. As long as I’m living, my little baby you will be.
Nothing else I ever do will be as holy as being your mom. You are a gift entrusted to me from the Lord, the greatest act of worship I will ever achieve.
On this first Mother’s Day, I thank Him for choosing me for you.
Melissa Svoboda
“Watch me! Watch me, Mom!” You heard it a million times as I demanded to be the center of attention. I know it was exhausting, but you were always there—at every competition, performance, and celebration. You were the ultimate room mom, team mom, and chaperone. You made the best costumes, threw the best parties, literally twirled a fire baton, and you made it look easy.
Because you were there, I always had a protector who made it safe to try and a fan who made me believe I was the best. Whether I won or fell, you were there to cheer me on and pick me up.
Now that I’m a mom, I get it—all the love and the sacrifice. And now that you’re Grammy, I am so blessed that you are here for my kids, always showing up with selfless love, patience, faith, and candy.
You’re my first call, my sounding board, my shopping buddy, my best friend. I’ll always need you. Thank you for showing me what love looks like. Now watch me try to be half the mom you are.
The Complicated Gift of Survival
AFTER THE BELL
ARTICLE BY WESLEA O’CONNOR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLA ALDRETE
The day I finished chemo, I thought it would feel triumphant. I envisioned marching up to the bell and ringing it with gusto. But I was not euphoric. I was anxious. My heart was pounding with a thousand questions I did not know how to say out loud. What if the cancer comes back? What if I am not in remission? What if, what if, what if…
My husband, Patrick, was waiting in the lobby anticipating the big bell ring. My mind was spinning as the last drops of chemo entered my veins. The oncology nurses were moving between patients with the calm efficiency that becomes second nature in a place like that. I finally called one of them over and asked the question I had been carrying for days: Do all of your patients ring the bell?
She gave me a knowing look—one that told me she had heard this before, that my fear was not unusual. She said some people ring the bell. Some do not. Some believe it is bad luck to celebrate too soon.
Bad luck! I hadn’t even considered that.
What finally pushed me toward the bell was a friend. He was a father who had fought the same cancer, but our stories ended differently. I survived. He did not. When I reached for that rope, tears streaming down my face, the room disappeared. It was just me and the bell.
I rang it for my family. I rang it for my freedom from treatment and the toll it had taken on my body. And I rang it for him and all the others who did not get their victory lap.
Walking away from that bell introduced me to a new kind of ache: survivor’s guilt. It settled into my chest with more weight than I expected. I thought about my friend’s children and the milestones he would miss. I thought about the randomness of two bodies responding differently to the same illness. For a long time, I found myself whispering the question: Why me?
Eventually, it hit me. Guilt implies wrongdoing, but I didn’t do anything wrong—nor did he. None of us who survive cancer have committed a crime by living. We all have our own stories.
For a while, I hid my joy from friends still in treatment. I softened my happiness, convinced that I was protecting those still in the fight. I know now that dimming my light will not make anyone else shine brighter. Sometimes hope comes from seeing what is possible.
I am still healing in body and spirit. I have been given the privilege of life. That privilege makes me hug my husband tighter, check on the people I love
“I rang the bell for my friend and all the others who did not get their victory lap.”
“I know now that dimming my light will not make anyone else shine brighter. Sometimes hope comes from seeing what is possible.”
more often, and savor the Hill Country sunrises and sunsets. Life is a gift. Remission is a gift.
If you are walking beside someone in treatment, understand this: Finishing does not always feel like victory. Sometimes it feels like standing in the doorway between gratitude and grief. Hold space for both.
Weslea O’Connor is a writer, Chief Operating Officer of Saxon MD, and founder of Survivor’s Edit, which shares personal essays about cancer survivorship, life after cancer, identity, and the emotional terrain that follows life-changing events.
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A rare offering of 66 homesites in a gated community, thoughtfully crafted on the banks of Barton Creek and among the treasured landscape of the Texas Hill Country.
VALUE OVER TIME
Three Generations of Women Lead Moreland Properties Through Decades of Change
ARTICLE BY MELISSA SVOBODA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLA ALDRETE
Jan Moreland remembers the MLS books. Her mother’s office was filled with them—slick covers and newsprint pages, each page packed with tiny squares, each square holding a property listing with a single black-and-white photo and a few brief details. She had been a second grader when her mother, Emily Moreland, began working in real estate. Those listing books would pile up in her mom’s office and sometimes topple over when the stacks grew too high.
By the time Jan was a teenager, Emily had spent years establishing herself in the industry. In 1986, she took the next step and founded her own brokerage, Moreland Properties.
Today, the company has grown into one of the most respected names in Central Texas real estate, with more than 100 agents serving Austin and the Hill Country. Emily remains at the helm as Chairman of the Board while Jan, a 20-year veteran agent, has forged her own career within the brokerage. And now, as Moreland Properties marks 40 years in the industry, granddaughter Perry Coburn has joined the team.
In this milestone year, Jan reflects on her mother’s remarkable accomplishments: “This has been all her, building this all on her own. And it’s fun that this year we’re adding a third generation to the company.”
In its earliest days, Emily founded Moreland Properties alongside a small, unconventional team of three women. Some had never worked outside the home before, and none had real estate experience. Still, “I had what I consider excellent human beings who wanted to work with me,” says Emily. “They didn’t really know how to sell real estate; they were just good, intelligent people.” Before long, they steadily grew their skills and their reputations, becoming top agents in the area.
That momentum was tested almost immediately. Just one year after opening the brokerage, Emily’s husband passed away and she faced the responsibility of supporting her family on her own. At the same time, the market grew increasingly difficult. “We went into a year where I did not sell one thing until— finally—one house sold,” she remembers. “But I loved it and I wanted to make it work, and I kept thinking, ‘it’s going to work.’”
As she pressed forward, the work became both her livelihood and a source of purpose and direction. Emily shares, “Real estate has been a huge benefit to me, not just financially, but also emotionally.”
Years later, Jan found herself following a similar path, establishing a career within the company her mother created. “My mom has built the most amazing company that provided a wonderful life for me and my kids.” During a major life transition while her children were young, real estate allowed Jan to
CONTINUED >
shape her schedule around her family while fully supporting her household.
The work is both demanding and rewarding. “Real estate is a 24-7 job. It wasn’t easy for my mom, and it wasn’t easy for me,” Jan says. Following her mother’s example of hard work and independence, she adds, “I feel very thankful for what was established.”
Since founding Moreland Properties four decades ago, much has changed. Emily laughs as she recalls her first fax machine and how she initially resisted it, insisting that contracts ought to be hand-delivered. Now, those days of faxes and printed MLS books are long gone, replaced by online platforms, social media marketing, drone photography, and 3D virtual tours.
Representing that shift is Perry, who currently works with the marketing team while training to become a buyer’s agent. “My generation is chronically online; we grew up with screens in our faces,” she says. Raised in a digital world, she brings an instinct for social media and the attention economy that shapes how homes are discovered and sold today.
Jan is continually impressed by how quickly and naturally her daughter navigates newer technology. “I just hand Perry my phone and magic things happen,” she quips. “Instagram just starts coming to life!”
As she learns the business from the ground up, Perry embodies the company’s future and its commitment to staying current in a rapidly changing market. At the same time, she values the standards established before her. Looking up to her experienced colleagues, Perry shares, “It’s inspiring to see the way they compose themselves when we’re in front of clients.”
That level of professionalism carries through in the way Moreland Properties builds trusted relationships while offering deep market knowledge and local expertise. “We are dedicated to serving the client,” Jan says. “For many of them, this is the biggest purchase they will ever make. It’s a business transaction, but it’s also very personal.”
Agents are committed to guiding their clients, making each step as smooth and thoughtful as possible while working toward the right outcome.
For all of these years, Moreland Properties has remained a family-run, independently owned brokerage, which is increasingly rare in the industry and influences how the company feels day to day. “The fact that it’s a family company—run by a family—has set the tone for everyone to act like a family,”
Perry says. As a newer team member, she values the openness and mentorship she encounters across the office. “I can walk into any office and somebody will sit there and answer my question, walk me through it, talk me through it,” she shares.
That sense of familiarity is also tied to the area itself, as the company’s growth has mirrored the evolution of Central Texas. “Our company grew with Austin,” Emily says, remembering a smaller city in 1986, when they watched new neighborhoods pop up and the area’s cultural scene begin to take shape.
Today, she still sees tremendous opportunity and beauty in the region. “I dearly love Central Texas. I think this is a wonderland of what you can build.”
In Dripping Springs, Jan has found her own place within that landscape. “I’ve gotten into my sweet spot; I know this area like the back of my hand,” she says. “I’m living where I want to live forever.” Her connection to the community includes serving on the board of the Dripping Springs Education Foundation and co-chairing the Heart of a Tiger gala.
Over the last four decades, Moreland Properties has moved through many cycles, from periods of growth to economic downturns, from the housing crisis to the post-pandemic surge. Despite these ups and downs, the focus is consistent: “My mom established this company with character and a reputation for treating people how they should be treated,” Jan says.
That steadiness is reflected in the Moreland name itself. While it carries recognition, Emily approaches it with humility: “You want to stand on your own merits.”
Now, as Perry steps more fully into her role at Moreland Properties, she represents the newest layer, bringing fresh tools to a solid foundation. And like her grandmother and mother before her, “She’s taking it by storm,” Jan says.
And so it seems that the more things change, the more they stay the same. “Now,” Emily laughs, “I just have to figure out what AI is.”
Moreland.com | @morelandproperties
1562 CANYON CROSSING VIEW
One of Jan Moreland’s notable properties is a custom estate in the Ranches at Dripping Springs, a gated 389-acre Hill Country community featuring 26 large tracts, each set on 12 to 18 acres of open Texas landscape.
Built by Keith Wing Custom Builders, the home is shaped by its setting as much as its design, with long Hill Country views, native terrain, and a quiet seasonal creek running through the land.
Inside, the home blends refined finishes with everyday function. The gourmet kitchen opens to a well-appointed butler’s pantry with double ovens, additional refrigeration, and custom cabinetry designed for both storage and entertaining.
The primary suite connects directly to the outdoor living spaces, with wide views across the Hill Country. The bath and closets are designed as a private retreat within the home.
Outdoors, the property opens into a resort-style setting with a pool, covered and open-air living areas, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen made for long evenings under the Texas sky.
A private well and rainwater collection system support the property’s sustainability.
Set within one of the Hill Country’s most distinctive communities, the home reflects the scale, privacy, and natural beauty that define life in Central Texas.
1562CanyonCrossing.com
Always a Teacher
Megan Danz Builds Confident Readers, Strong Leaders, and a Lasting Love of Learning
It all started in her family’s Dripping Springs home, where a spare bedroom was converted to a pretend classroom— complete with a projector, whiteboard, some makeshift desks, and dolls as the students.
Along with her sister, Megan Danz spent her childhood playing school. “I’ve wanted to be a teacher since I was 5 years old,” she shares, tracing her inspiration back to the magic of her own pretend play.
Now, what began as a childhood dream has blossomed into a career that started at Rooster Springs Elementary as a first grade student teacher. Sixteen years later,
Danz is still teaching in that classroom and is known as an exceptional teacher within the district, honored as Teacher of the Year in 2017.
Walking into Danz’s classroom feels less like entering a school and more like joining a family. She radiates sunshine and positivity in a way that is infectious to students and faculty alike. She creates a seamless blend of love and respect while maintaining high expectations and empowering leadership among her students.
Creating a safe, supportive environment is the foundation of a nurturing classroom. “I want my students to
ARTICLE BY ANNIE O'BRIEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLA ALDRETE
know they can tell me anything,” Danz says. “If they feel seen and loved, the learning follows naturally.”
That learning is amplified by traditions that have become legendary for the Danzy Doos, as her classroom family is lovingly called. Children take joy in reciting their precious classroom mission statement every day. They also treasure Lunch Bunch (where stories are swapped over sandwiches), Friday dance parties (a nod to Danz’s past as a Dripping Springs Hi-Stepper), the annual fun of Glow Day, and more.
Danz naturally creates a joyful classroom, and her ability to nurture academic growth is a true gift. She is a master of differentiation, moving easily between small groups to ensure every child—from the advanced reader to the student just finding their phonetic footing—is met exactly where they are.
She is especially passionate about guiding children as they learn to read. “There is nothing like the moment a student realizes they are reading,” Danz says. “You see their eyes light up, their confidence soar. They realize the world has just opened up to them.”
Wherever a student may be on their reading journey, it’s important to her to instill a love of reading. “We track how many books we read; we read so many different kinds of books and I love it so much,” she says.
The connections she forms with her first graders stretch far beyond her classroom. Each year, one of Danz’s favorite traditions is when high school seniors walk the halls of their elementary school before graduation. Seeing her former students—now nearly grown— return to her classroom and share life updates reminds her why teaching is a gift.
To them, Danz will always be the teacher who loved them like family, taught them to read, and danced with them on Fridays. Saying goodbye at the end of each year is always hard, but the promise of future reunions makes it a little easier.
In the ever-growing and changing town of Dripping Springs, Danz is a constant. A local girl living her dream of teaching in her hometown, she sends her students into the world with lessons, laughter, and a love of learning that will last a lifetime.
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DRIPPING SPRINGS MOM LAUNCHES A MOTHER-DAUGHTER MOVEMENT OF GIVING BACK
NCL: A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS
ARTICLE BY SARAH LAMBIE PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIKA KNOX
Years ago, while volunteering with her children at EmilyAnn’s Trail of Lights in Wimberley, Jenny Scholl had a moment that would shape her family and, eventually, her community.
“NCL HAS BROUGHT SO MANY OPPORTUNITIES FOR GIRLS TO GROW AND GIVE BACK.” - SCARLETT SCHOLL
As they worked together, Jenny says, “I realized I wanted more of that. I wanted my children to grow up valuing service and to experience it alongside me.”
At the time, they were volunteering through opportunities Jenny found on her own. But the experience sparked a bigger idea: finding a consistent, meaningful way to serve together.
Jenny discovered the National Charity League (NCL), a national organization focused on strengthening the mother-daughter relationship through philanthropy, leadership, and cultural experiences. It was precisely what she was looking for. But when her oldest daughter was entering high school, the nearest chapter in Circle C was already full.
Still, the idea stayed with her, and in December 2023, she came across a neighborhood Facebook post: We need to start a Dripping Springs chapter of the National Charity League.
“I thought, our community needs this, and I can make it happen,” Jenny says. She contacted the national organization and began assembling a team.
“I posted a Facebook request asking for help, and these amazing women I didn’t even know stepped forward,” she says. “They became our board, and we followed the NCL model to build the chapter.”
By spring 2024, the Dripping Springs chapter was officially launched. That fall, 200 mothers and daughters joined. Within a year, membership grew to around 250.
Today, the chapter partners with more than 20 nonprofits across Dripping Springs, Wimberley, and South Austin, offering ongoing opportunities to serve. Members commit to 15 hours of service and 10 hours of leadership annually, along with meetings and chapter events.
NCL is built on three pillars: service, leadership, and culture. Each girl has a role, building confidence as they lead meetings, find their voices, and step into responsibility.
For Jenny’s daughters Scarlett and Sophie, the experience has been transformative. “NCL has brought so many opportunities for girls to grow and give back,” Scarlett says. “I’ve loved seeing the impact we can make together. It’s shown me what it means to lead and be a part of something bigger than myself.”
The chapter serves with organizations like Foster Village, Hopeful Farms, and Dripping Springs Friendship Club. One of Jenny and her daughters’ most meaningful experiences was volunteering with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, delivering and assembling beds for children in need.
Jenny remembers helping a family with four boys build their own beds: “You could see the impact immediately. It was something my daughters could relate to; everyone needs a bed to sleep in. It was the kind of experience that stays with you.”
For Jenny, the greatest impact has been at home. “It creates stronger bonds,” she says. “It opens conversations we might not otherwise have and gives us shared experiences that matter. It’s a different way of teaching my values.”
For families considering joining, Jenny says the benefits go far beyond volunteer hours. “It allows you to relate to your child in a new way and exposes you to parts of your community you might never otherwise see,” she says. “You meet people who share your values, and you realize how much impact you can have. I hope to foster a love of community and contribution for all of our members.”
Mark your calendars: Applications for the next membership cycle open January 15, 2027 and close March 1, 2027.
“WE STEP OUTSIDE OF OURSELVES AND DO SOMETHING FOR SOMEONE ELSE— TOGETHER. THAT’S WHERE THE REAL CONNECTION HAPPENS.”
- JENNY SCHOLL
Since 2005, Sunset Construction and Excavation has provided quality septic installations, as well as, design, maintenance, excavation, and new site preparation for residential and commercial projects. James works closely with homeowners, builders, developers, and engineers to ensure septic systems are properly installed and functioning to the highest standards. We are local to Dripping Springs and proudly serve the hill country area No matter what service you’re looking for, you can rest assured it’s being delivered with integrity, honesty and quality.
Kate Tart: Designing for Real Life
How Thoughtful Architecture Shapes Living in the Hill Country
ARTICLE BY MICAH WIENER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ISABELLA ALDRETE
In the rolling landscape of the Texas Hill Country, homes are more than structures; they are a reflection of how people live, gather, and grow. For local architect Kate Tart, designing homes is both a responsibility and a privilege, rooted in a deep belief that design has the power to meaningfully improve everyday life.
“We spend the majority of our lives inside a building,” she says. “The design of those places has a big impact on the quality of our lives.” While her experience spans schools, churches, and office buildings, it’s residential architecture that resonates most. “Designing someone’s home is not just the most fun; it’s also the most rewarding. It’s all about the people.”
That people-first mindset is central to Tart’s work. She takes time to understand how her clients move through their day, what brings them joy, and the challenges they face in their current space. “If you listen carefully,” she explains, “you start to see a home that provides the space for a quiet cup of coffee at sunrise as well as a space where the teenagers hang out. For me, accessible design isn’t just about responding to different
needs—it’s about making thoughtful design attainable for everyone.”
Tart’s connection to the area runs deep. She moved to Austin to attend graduate school at the University of Texas and quickly fell in love with the region. Eight years ago, she and her family chose Dripping Springs as home. “This is where we wanted our kids to grow up,” she says. “I love being of service to my community.”
Designing in the Hill Country comes with both inspiration and responsibility. The rugged beauty of the landscape, paired with our intense climate, demands thoughtful consideration. “Are there views we want to capture? We need to consider the southern and western sun, which provide a lot of heat gain,” Tart explains. Deep overhangs, shaded porches, and strategic orientation all play a role in creating homes that are comfortable and efficient.
Equally important is how homeowners use all of their space, especially the outdoors. “The design doesn’t stop at the exterior walls,” she says. Outdoor kitchens, porches, patios, and pavilions become extensions of the home.
At the heart of Tart’s philosophy is a simple idea: Design matters. It’s something people often don’t notice until it’s missing. She compares it to something as familiar as a staircase.
“We rarely think about stairs when we are using them. However, if the stairs are uneven you’ll trip and quickly recognize they don’t work well,” she says. The same principle applies to a home’s layout. A crowded kitchen, a lack of quiet space, or awkward flow can subtly but significantly impact daily life. “Thoughtful design for your home is like a watch,” she says. “It should function seamlessly for the way you live, while reflecting your personal style.”
Despite the value architects bring, many homeowners hesitate to engage one, often assuming it’s out of reach. Tart works to change that perception by making the process approachable and transparent. “Most people only build a home once, so it’s completely normal to feel intimidated,” she says. “Your architect should be your guide from design until you move into your house.”
She often incorporates features that allow homes to evolve with their owners over time, like main-floor bedrooms, accessible bathrooms, or structural planning for future additions like elevators. “Yes, I want to design a house that works for you now, but I also want a house that works for you for years to come,” she says.
Her work ranges from young families to multigenerational living, where flexibility is key. Sometimes that means rethinking a space entirely, like designing bunkrooms that encourage connection or creating multi-use areas that adapt as needs change.
Renovations, too, play an important role in her business. While they can come with unknowns, Tart sees them as an opportunity. “Renovating an existing house is one of the most sustainable approaches to design because we are utilizing what is already there instead of starting from scratch,” she explains.
Among her many projects, one stands out as especially meaningful: a renovation for family friends caring for a daughter with special needs. By reconfiguring the home to include a large, accessible bathroom and a seamless path through the house, Tart helped ease the physical
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landscape, lifestyle, community
burden of daily care. “It wasn’t the fanciest project,” she says, “but it had the biggest impact and was most rewarding for me.”
For those considering building or renovating, her advice is straightforward: Start the conversation. “I love meeting with potential clients to help them envision what is possible,” she says.
In a region where landscape, lifestyle, and community are deeply intertwined, thoughtful design doesn’t just shape a home. It shapes a life.
KateTart.com | @katetartarch
Kindness
Starts First, Without Hesitation
DAMSEL IN DISTRESS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY BERG
Kindness doesn’t wait for the perfect moment; it begins the instant someone chooses to step in.
On a rainy Thursday morning, Leia finished pumping gas and turned her key, only to find that her car wouldn’t start. She tried again. Nothing. Rain tapped steadily against the windshield as that familiar unease settled in—the kind we’ve all felt when something small suddenly becomes a problem.
A man a few pumps away noticed. He looked over and asked if she needed help. She did.
Without hesitation, he pulled his truck closer and began trying to jump her car. They stood there in the rain, hoping it would catch. When it didn’t, another man pulled up nearby, saw what was happening, and joined them.
No questions. No delay. Just help, freely given. Together, they kept
trying until, finally, the car started. Leia was able to move on with her day, but the experience stayed with her. In that moment when she needed help, two strangers chose to begin, chose to act, chose to not look away.
Lately, we’ve been seeing more of these stories—shared across social media—of neighbors stopping to help stranded drivers, stepping in when it would be easier to keep going. These moments matter. They remind us that kindness is still here, still moving, still growing.
This is how it works. One person starts, and others follow. A single choice creates a ripple. So let this be our reminder, Dripping Springs. Don’t wait. Pay attention. Step in when you can.
Kindness doesn’t need a plan. It simply needs someone willing to start.
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ARTICLE BY CHRISTY JENSEN, M.D. | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTEN HAFNER
It’s Personal
WHY A DRIPPING SPRINGS PHYSICIAN RESHAPED HER PRACTICE TO DELIVER MORE THOUGHTFUL, CONNECTED CARE BUILT AROUND REAL LIFE
I had just sat down to dinner with my family when I received a frantic call from one of my patients’ moms as she drove her toddler to the hospital after an arm injury.
From our conversation, I suspected a nursemaid’s elbow (a common elbow dislocation) and suggested we meet in the restaurant parking lot, where I confirmed the diagnosis, quickly treated it, and returned to my dinner. I was able to help my little friend and her relieved mama avoid a long ER visit and head home with her arm as good as new. Situations like these are satisfying for me as a pediatrician, but life has not always been like this.
My former role in pediatric urgent care meant 12-hour shifts without breaks and pressure to see more than four patients per hour. I often drove home with my head spinning, wondering how I could provide quality care in just 10 to 12 minutes per child. The pace left little room for thought, connection, or trust—let alone time to explore integrative approaches. It was physically and emotionally exhausting.
After years of this—and a pandemic—I felt burned out and disillusioned. I wanted to build meaningful relationships and offer excellent care, but I felt constrained by insurance and corporate healthcare systems whose priorities didn’t align with mine or my patients’. Simultaneously, I saw growing distrust in the healthcare system.
Then I discovered the direct primary care (DPC) model. By removing insurance barriers and offering care through membership, DPC allows patients direct access to their physician. This simple model creates space for deeper relationships and more personalized care. As more families seek a trusted pediatrician and more physicians seek balance and time with patients, DPC is filling that gap. In a world moving toward algorithms and AI, DPC provides a way to maintain the human side of healthcare.
SparrowPediatricsGroup.com | @sparrowpediatrics
DRIPPING SPRINGS | GEORGETOWN
Hill Country Elite Cheer: Where Local Athletes Take Flight
LOCAL MOM BUILDS A THRIVING CHEER PROGRAM ROOTED IN CONFIDENCE, COMMUNITY, AND OPPORTUNITY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY BERG
Tucked inside a quiet warehouse park off Darden Hill Road sit two identical buildings—home to Hill Country Elite Cheer, a rapidly growing all-star cheerleading program right here in Dripping Springs. Most afternoons, athletes stream in and out, their energy spilling into the parking lot as upbeat music echoes from inside. For owner, coach, and local resident Katie Dotson, it’s a dream come true—and she’s just getting started. Growing up in the Dallas suburbs, Dotson cheered throughout middle and high school. But it wasn’t until she was introduced to all-star cheer that her passion for the sport truly took off. From that moment on, she knew cheer would always be
part of her life. Starting her own gym, however, felt more like a distant dream than a realistic goal.
A mom of three, Dotson credits her daughter as the catalyst behind HC Elite Cheer. “What’s ironic is my daughter is a competitive dancer, but she wanted to try one season of cheer, and that’s really how it all began,” she explains.
While coaching her daughter’s pre-competition team for DSYSA, Dotson noticed a pattern: Talented athletes graduating from the recreational program were leaving the area to join allstar gyms 45 minutes to an hour away. That sparked a simple but powerful question: Why aren’t we keeping these athletes local?
“Of course we want to build a successful program, but our bigger goal is to maintain an athlete-first mentality.” - Katie Dotson
Dotson’s experience at Baylor University helped shape her answer. While there, she coached at a small all-star program that was just getting off the ground. She worked with multiple teams, helped the gym transition into a new facility, and witnessed firsthand the challenges of building something from scratch. Those early lessons made one thing clear: The beginning stages of any business are far from glamorous. But Dotson also knew this community needed a program like this, and she wasn’t going to let anything stand in her way.
Today, HC Elite Cheer is more than just a gym; it’s a family. “Of course we want to build a successful program,” Dotson says, “but our bigger goal is to maintain an athlete-first mentality.”
To this end, she strives to create a safe space where athletes can grow, adapt, succeed, and even fail while also having a place where they can come hang out and work on skills.
“My heart belongs to these girls—to help them feel seen, known, and understood,” Dotson shares. “The pre-teen and teen years can be tough, so nothing brings me more joy than seeing them here, just being kids together.”
In the all-star cheer universe, success is often defined by trophies, championship rings and jackets, and bids to Worlds competitions. For individual athletes, it might mean mastering a new skill, making a higher-level team, or winning a key competition. While Dotson believes those achievements are important, her definition of success runs deeper.
“When I was cheering, there weren’t many opportunities to continue after high school unless you were a small flyer. Now, there are so many paths—college cheer, STUNT programs, Worlds teams, and more,” Dotson says. “I want our athletes to see their potential, understand the work it takes to achieve their goals, and learn how to overcome adversity along the way. That’s success to me.”
She also credits the gym’s growth to the families who have embraced HC Elite Cheer: “Our parents are incredible—supportive, encouraging, and truly invested in what we’re building. They trust us to mentor and develop their kids, and that means everything.”
Now entering its third season, HC Elite Cheer is thriving. Tryouts for the upcoming season will take place in early May, with opportunities for athletes of all levels, including showcase, half-season, novice, prep, and elite teams. The gym also offers classes in tumbling, cheer prep, jumps, stunting, and even summer clinics, ensuring there’s a place for every athlete to grow.
HCEliteCheer.com | @hcelitecheer
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Dr. Chris DeMarco and Dr. Gianna Quintana 512-858-7200 | Hours: Mon - Thurs 7:30am - 4:30 pm 331 Sportsplex Dr. Ste B, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Dr. Marino aims to provide holistic care, trust, and a therapeutic doctor-patient relationship via Direct Primary Care. Her mission is to connect people to integrous, high quality, and personal primary care in the forms of a functional approach to preventive health, in-depth investigation into chronic illness, and holistic care of acute health issues.
Membership Benefits
• $130/month for Unlimited Primary Care
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Mom’s Car Should Look as Good as She Does
MOMMOBILE MAKEOVER
ARTICLE BY KAREN RIVERA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SUMMER MILES
Here’s the deal. Most of our mom readers can relate: One of our primary duties is transporting children. If moms had a resume, “Driver” would be written near the top.
Day in and day out, I schlep kids to and from school, activities, birthday parties—you name it, WE ARE IN THE CAR.
And that’s just with the kids. As a realtor, I’m on the road—all over our beautiful area showing property—all the time. So my vehicle is like a second home. It is where lunch is eaten, negotiations are made, and makeup is retouched.
All this is to say, I was ready for a cool car. Not because I’m trying to be cool, but because I am cool. And cool moms deserve cool rides. (Cue the cheers from all the cool mamas.)
Enter my 2026 blue Land Cruiser. Wow, she’s a beaut. And she was perfect just the way she was … but who doesn’t love a bit of a glow-up, ya know?
So what’s a cool mom to do in Dripping Springs? I called THOR Off Road and asked them to make Lulu the Land Cruiser (yes, of course she has a name) even cooler. And that they did. With a level and new tires, this girl is ready for it all—from carpools to off-road ranch showings to girls’ nights. She’s a versatile queen, and she absolutely owns the look.
I’ve got to say, the group at THOR made this mama feel right at home! They take their job seriously and made me so comfortable with the entire process. They understood the assignment.
ThorOffRoadTX.com | @thoroffroadtx
THOR OFF ROAD
THOR Off Road is a premier off-road vehicle outfitter specializing in high-quality parts, accessories, and expert installation services for trucks and SUVs. THOR puts a personal touch on every truck to make sure each customer gets exactly what they’re looking for.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASORZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
BECKY HILLYARD
From Side Hustle to Style Empire
The power of taste, trust, and the courage to “just start.”
She didn’t have a business plan, a media budget, or even a name anyone could pronounce. What Becky Hillyard had was taste, a young family, and the instinct to just start. Today, her lifestyle brand Cella Jane commands an audience the size of Vogue’s, she’s nine collections strong with Splendid, and she’s built it all while raising three kids — refusing to sacrifice one for the other. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Becky shares what it really takes to build a brand, a career, and a life you love. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full conversation.
Q: WHEN DID YOU KNOW CELLA JANE WAS MORE THAN A HOBBY?
A: Two moments. Women started emailing me saying they bought something I recommended and felt amazing — asking me to help them find a dress for a wedding. That felt incredible. Then I looked at my affiliate numbers for one month and realized I could cover our mortgage. I thought, I can actually do this. I never set out to build a business. I started it because I genuinely loved it.
Becky in Splendid x @CellaJaneBlog Spring 2026 Collection
Q: WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST RISK YOU EVER TOOK WITH THE BRAND?
A: Designing my own collection. It’s easy to point at items on a website and say I love these. But to create something from scratch, put your name on it, and wait to see if people connect with it — that’s terrifying. I had an incredible partner in Splendid, and women loved the pieces. It was the biggest risk and the biggest accomplishment.
Q: HOW HAS INFLUENCER MARKETING CHANGED SINCE YOU STARTED?
A: When I started, brands didn’t know whether to take it seriously. Now it’s a legitimate line item in their marketing budgets — sometimes bigger than TV. Because what we’ve built is trust. People trust a real recommendation from someone they follow far more than a commercial. There’s no question about it now.
Q: YOU’RE A MOM OF THREE RUNNING A FULL BRAND. WHAT DOES YOUR DAY ACTUALLY LOOK LIKE?
A: I try to get up at five and not hit snooze — that first hour before the house wakes up is the most productive, most peaceful hour of my day. Then it’s all hands on deck with the kids and school drop-off. After that I work — planning content, connecting with my team, editing. After pickup, the day shifts completely and it’s all about them. I’ve learned to protect both halves fiercely, because both matter.
Q: WHAT WOULD YOU TELL SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO BUILD SOMETHING OF THEIR OWN BUT KEEPS WAITING?
A: Don’t wait. Don’t wait for the perfect camera, the right strategy, or enough followers. We find every excuse to stay comfortable. Just start, be consistent, and be authentically yourself. The right people will find you — and they’ll stay.
This conversation is just the beginning. Becky goes deeper on the risks that almost stopped her, the design process behind her latest Splendid collection, and what she’d tell her 2012 self today. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle Podcast.
“Trust is the only metric that actually compounds.”
— Becky Hillyard
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Side by Side, We Built What Didn’t Exist.
Haley & Christy built Haus of Jayne from a shared love for the plant and a willingness to take a leap. What once felt unfamiliar quickly became embraced by our community.
Today, Haus of Jayne is more than a store. It’s a space where people feel comfortable, supported, and educated, whether they’re brand new or have been with us since day one. And that’s something we’re incredibly proud of.
Start where you are....we’ll meet you there.
www.hausofjayne.com 512-648-7420
766 Old Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs, TX 78620
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ ounces vodka or gin
• 1 ounce fresh-squeezed lemon juice (about one lemon)
• 1 ounce lavender syrup (like Monin Lavender Syrup)
• 1 ounce water
A Cocktail That POURS BACK
ARTICLE BY DRINK TO REMEMBER PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACY BERG
There’s something to be said about women and the way they carry it all—the schedules, the details, the people, the moments. They show up, hold it together, and rarely ask for much in return. Whether it’s managing a household, building a career, raising families, or simply being the one everyone leans on, women have a quiet way of doing it all with strength and grace.
But every now and then, it’s worth pausing—stepping away, even briefly, to pour a little something back into your own cup.
Enter the Lavender Lemonade cocktail. Light, refreshing, and just a little indulgent, this drink feels like a small reward for all that you give. The soft floral note of lavender paired with bright, fresh lemon creates a balance that is both calming and uplifting. Add a smooth vodka or gin, and it becomes something a little more special. It’s beautiful in the glass, easy to make, and perfect for those moments when you get to slow down and savor.
This is the kind of cocktail that fits in seamlessly— whether you’re poolside on a warm afternoon or gathered with friends for a cozy night in. It can be sipped quietly at the end of a long day or shared over laughter and conversation. However you enjoy it, it offers a gentle reminder to take a breath and enjoy the moment.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice and shake for about 20 seconds
2. Pour over fresh ice into a rocks glass
3. Garnish with a lemon wheel and serve
DTRBartending.com | @dtrbartending
A Light, Floral Cocktail Designed for Slowing Down, Savoring the Moment, and Giving a Little Something Back to Yourself
Join fellow veterans for a day of camaraderie and friendly competition hosted by Patriots' Hall of Dripping Springs. This event continues a growing tradition of experienced veterans bringing younger veterans into the community. Veterans shoot for free thanks to the generous support of event sponsors. Lunch will be provided by Pig Pen BBQ. PatriotsHall.org/event/patriots-hall-clay-shoot-hog-heaven
MAY 3RD
Sunday Happy Hour at Winehouse
Winehouse: 501 Old Fitzhugh Road | 2:00 PM
Make every Sunday a fun day at Winehouse. Enjoy Happy Hour specials on Sundays from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., including $10 glasses of wine, $6 pints, and $3 empanadas. WinehouseTX.com
MAY 9TH
Mother's Day Market
Dripping Springs Distilling: 5330 Bell Springs Road | 12:00 PM
Join us at Dripping Springs Distilling for an afternoon honoring the amazing moms in our lives. Shop one-of-a-kind gifts from more than 30 local makers, listen to live music on the patio, and enjoy craft cocktails and mocktails. @austinartisanmarket
MAY 14TH
Painting Class With Veteran Pauly Tamez
Patriots' Hall: 231 Patriots' Hall Boulevard | 6:00 PM
Join Pauly Tamez for a step-by-step oil painting class. No experience needed; all supplies are provided. Participants must be 16 or older. $25 fee waived for active-duty, veterans, and their families. Register early; spots are limited. PatriotsHall.org/event/painting-class-withveteran-pauly-tamez
MAY 15TH
16th Annual RED Arena Round-Up
RED Arena: 2435 W. Fitzhugh Road | 5:00 PM
Join us for this free annual two-day community event and horse show, showcasing the accomplishments of children and adults with disabilities who participate in RED Arena's therapeutic riding programs. Featuring a large silent auction, drill team performances, competitions, and family-friendly activities, this event serves as the nonprofit's largest fundraiser. RedArena.org/round-up.html
On Memorial Day weekend, enjoy three days of CPRA-sanctioned rodeo performances, including bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, and mutton bustin'. The event also includes live music, food trucks, local vendor shopping, and family-friendly activities. The fun begins Friday evening and lasts through Sunday. DrippingSpringsRanchPark.com/home/events/30031
PEDIATRIC CARE, REDEFINED
From custom ADUs and poolside casitas to full home expansions, Black Slate Construction brings your vision to life with thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship built to last. Whether you’re creating additional living space, a private guest retreat, or increasing your property value, our team handles every step—from concept to completion.
Licensed. Experienced. Trusted. We proudly hold a Master Electrician License, allowing us to seamlessly integrate all electrical components in-house—ensuring safety, efficiency, and a smoother build process. Custom Construction. Built Right the First Time.
Planning a project this year?
Our team would be happy to discuss your vision.
INTRODUCING THE FERRARI AMALFI SPIDER
Developed for those who crave a thrilling driving experience without ever compromising comfort or style: The new Ferrari Amalfi Spider. Featuring a tailor-made soft top that opens in just 13.5 seconds and a twin-turbo V8 delivering outstanding performance in all driving conditions.
