Find vintage treasures at Austin Pets Alive! Thrift on 51st Street.
14 Chasing a Dream
With support from the Mueller community, Jenna Sacco reopened her jewelry store, Chasing Indigo, after it flooded.
17 Poet for Hire
Todd Boss helps others heal through the power of poetry.
20 40 Years of Caring
Mueller-based Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas keeps families with sick children together, close to the medical resources they need.
24 Kid-Friendly
Interiors
Follow these tips to create spaces in your home that are inviting for children—and free of clutter.
4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE A Season to Savor
8 WHAT’S NEW Events and Attractions
10 MEET ME AT THE MARKET CTRUS handcrafted lemonades
30 PERSPECTIVES
Poem by Galuh Putro
32 PHOTO OP Reflections of Dusk COVER
The leadership team of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas, which this year celebrates 40 years of service to the community.
As a real estate professional and proud resident of the Mueller neighborhood, I love being a part of this vibrant, close-knit community. With its mix of modern homes, green spaces, and walkable amenities, Mueller truly offers something special. Living here gives me an inside perspective on the area’s unique market and lifestyle, which I use to help clients make informed and confident decisions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about the neighborhood, I’m always happy to share my expertise and enthusiasm for this amazing place we call home.
MAGAZINE
WA SEASON TO SAVOR
WITH THE ADVENT of fall comes the realization that we are in the back end of the year and heading straight into the holidays. Ok....but let’s not get ahead of ourselves! Instead, let’s savor the wonder of being able to enjoy outdoor activities longer than people can in other parts of the country. This issue we celebrate a special milestone for our very own Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas which has been serving the community for 40 years. A recent
festive gathering honored all that the organization has meant to our community and the lives of so many young people.
We also check in on our own local favorite, Chasing Indigo, whose story of resilience and hard work is inspirational for all of us. After losing everything in the microburst storm back in May, they are rebuilding stronger than ever. Let’s support this neighborhood gem!
This month, we turn once again to the experts at Remodel Boutique, who share thoughtful, family-friendly tips to enhance your home. From smart design elements to kidapproved features, Remodel Boutique offers creative ideas that both parents and children will appreciate.
Carmen Gray does triple duty this month with stories about the amazing work being done at Austin Pets Alive! Thrift, which supports the many animals in need in the Austin community. She also introduces us to Todd Boss, who can often be found near the farmers’ market sharing his inspiring poetry. And speaking of the market, she visits market favorite CTRUS.
It’s a jam-packed issue leading us into the busy end of year season—and we are ready for it!
Liz Reingold Publisher
Editor & Publisher
Liz Reingold
Writers
Carmen Gray
Cristina Tangredi
Photographers
Margarita Garcia Acevedo
Marketing Coordinator
Alexandra Garcia
Social Media and Content Intern
Nicole Higgins
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
SVP, Group Publisher
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O’Connell
Executive Editor
Elaine Quilici
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
Mueller magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Mueller, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
DIRECTORY OF SPONSORS
Many thanks to our committed sponsors, who make it possible for us to bring you high-quality local stories each month. Shopping and doing business close to home are excellent ways to support our community. When you visit our sponsors, please tell them Mueller magazine sent you!
Crane & Holtzman
Crane & Holtzman is a boutique, full-service accounting firm providing tax, consulting and accounting services to individuals, businesses and trusts.
512.215.0057 | www.craneholtzman.com
Dish Society
Dish Society is a Mueller neighborhood favorite for locally sourced food, everyday feel-good meals, good vibes, and great company
512.623.1498 | www.dishsociety.com @dishsociety
Honest Mary’s
Honest Mary’s fuels the Mueller community with life-giving fast food—clean, chef-crafted bowls made fresh and fast. Perfect for families, busy professionals, and active lifestyles.
512.375.3906 | www.honestmarys.com @honestmarys
Origin Hotel
Discover Origin Hotel Austin, blending Texas charm with modern comfort, stylish rooms, and all-day dining from Blue Lacy right in the heart of Mueller. 512.861.1140 | www.Originhotel.com @origin_austin
The Herb Bar
The Herb Bar, Austin’s oldest apothecary, has served the community for nearly 40 years with teas, tinctures, organic body products, and holistic workshops focused on wellness and connection. 512.444.6251 | www.theherbbar.com @theherbbar
Kuper Sotheby’s
A distinguished real estate advisor and proud Mueller resident, offering expert guidance whether you’re buying, selling, or exploring the neighborhood.
512.831.6577 | www.sotheybysrealty.com @soud_twal
St. Austin Catholic School
Since 1917, St. Austin has partnered with families to form Christ-centered, academically strong, moral community leaders through faith, service, scholarship, and a nurturing Catholic environment. 512.886.1756 | Staustinschool.org
Floyd’s 99 Barbershop
Floyd’s 99 Barbershop offers expert cuts, shaves, and color for EVERYONE—set in a fun, familyfriendly space with our iconic poster wall and lively music.
Since 2008, the Mueller Silent Market Team has specialized in Mueller and Central Austin real estate, offering expert guidance on both public and private listings.
As the state’s leading workers’ compensation provider, Texas Mutual Insurance Company is dedicated to protecting employees, supporting local communities, and fortifying the state economy. 512.224.3800 | www.texasmutual.com @texasmutual
The Salty Sow
At Salty Sow, we serve up bold, farm-sourced Texas comfort food with a Southern twist—bringing people together for unforgettable meals and good times.
512.391.2337 | www.saltysow.com @saltysow
Thinkery
Thinkery, a nonprofit children’s museum and home to Little Thinkers Preschool, sparks joyful, playbased STEAM learning so ALL children cultivate a lifelong love of learning.
Feel great, look amazing at VIO Med Spa. Our medical professionals specialize in skin rejuvenation, Botox, cosmetic injectables, skin care, weight loss and body contouring.
Reuse on the Runway—Austin’s most unique fashion event of the year—features one-of-a-kind, reuse-inspired looks from more than 50 local designers. Proceeds support Austin Creative Reuse, a reuse and conservation nonprofit next to Mueller. The event will be held 6:30 p.m. September 20 at Branch Park Pavilion. Tickets start at $18. Find more information at www.austincreativereuse.org/ reuse-on-the-runway.
ROCK THE PARK
The first KUTX free family-friendly Rock the Park concert is September 26 at Mueller Lake Park. More information at www.kutx.org/liveevents/kutx-events/rock-the-park.
LBJ PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY
There is still time to enjoy the LBJ Presidential Library’s exhibit, “From the White House to the Ocean Deep: LBJ, Jaws, and Conservation.” The exhibit, which closes October 19, honors “Jaws” author Peter Benchley’s mission to protect sharks as well as his connection to President Johnson. Don’t miss it!
LEARN MORE
The Mueller Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit building a strong, inclusive and connected community through events, activities, advocacy and outreach. To learn more about Mueller, visit www. muellerneighborhood.org.
A Smashing Success
Keep your cool with organic, handcrafted lemonades from CTRUS.
BY CARMEN GRAY
TEXAS SUMMERS can be sweltering, but CTRUS lemonades offer a welcome opportunity to cool down and take five. Snag a refreshing beverage—made from organic whole fruit and handmuddled on the spot—at CTRUS’s cheerful, vibrant stall at the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller.
Sipping a cool lemonade on a shady porch is picture perfect for a hot summer day, and CTRUS captures that nostalgic feeling in every cup. Its refreshing menu features a rainbow of citrus flavors, including lemon,
lime and orange, either alone or in various combinations. Rotating weekly specials, like strawberry and blueberry, add variety, as do seasonal pop-up surprises. You can mix and match or stick with a favorite. Mine is the zesty Lemon-Orange, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any combination.
CTRUS began in June 2017 with one simple idea: to make fresh, real lemonade the way it should be, crafted with whole lemons, hand-muddled, and sweetened with a house-made organic simple syrup. No preservatives,
no artificial flavor—just pure, clean ingredients and a lot of heart. What started as a modest idea has grown into a beloved small business known for its delicious flavors, colorful branding, and the unmistakable aroma of fresh citrus! But there’s much more to this story.
A FAMILY VENTURE
Owner and operator Hector Serrano launched CTRUS as a family venture, inspired by an instinct back home. Born on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, Serrano has had challenges that led him to deeply value family and community. At just 9 years old, he remembers his family’s life forever changing after they were struck by a drunk driver while on vacation. The accident left his father permanently brain injured. The rest of the family recovered from the accident, but Serrano’s mother, to whom he says he owes everything, had to then care for her husband as well as her children.
Despite the hardships, Serrano went on to graduate college with a marketing degree and met his wife, Yarmin. Together, they ran a stall selling candied nuts at a flea market in Puerto Rico until he decided that the market
needed a refreshing drink instead. That’s when the idea of lemonade took hold. And it went over well! When Serrano moved with his family to Austin in 2016 (he fell in love with the vibe while visiting), he took the lemonade idea with him, deciding at that point to make the drinks organic. “So, you see, it’s not just about selling drinks,” Serrano says. “It’s about being part of something bigger. Something that feels like home.”
AN IDEA AND SOME LEMONS
Although CTRUS can now be found at various Farmers’ Markets across the Austin area, Serrano says that Mueller holds a special place in his heart. Over the past eight years, the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller has played a pivotal role in the growth of the business. “This market gave us our first real chance,” Serrano reflects. “We didn’t have a big budget or a fancy setup—just an idea and some lemons. The support we’ve received here helped us refine our process and keep growing.”
And grow, they have. CTRUS now has a dedicated following, with regulars who come every week to sip, chat, and try new flavors. It’s a weekend ritual that feels both energizing and restorative. It can be a moment of brightness in the middle of a hot Texas day. “Mueller Farmers’ Market has been an incredible space for our family business. Not only is it where we get to connect directly with customers and share our drinks in their freshest form, but it’s also a place that aligns with our values: local, intentional, and community-first,” Serrano tells me with a smile.
So, if you find yourself in Mueller on a Sunday morning, follow the sound of citrus being muddled
and the scent of fresh fruit wafting through the air, but get there early, because there’s always a line. Whether you’re craving a classic or feeling adventurous, a CTRUS smashed lemonade is the perfect way to cool down and support a local gem that continues to share joy and hope in every cup.
Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a retired teacher, published author and freelance writer.
Hector and Yarmin Serrano, CTRUS owners
A Thrift Store That Saves Lives
A
Love browsing for vintage treasures? You’ll find them at Austin Pets Alive! Thrift, and your purchases will help animals in need.
BY CARMEN GRAY
AACROSS THE RAILROAD tracks on 51st Street, right on the corner with Clarkson, you might have spotted or even stepped inside Austin Pets Alive! Thrift, a unique shop covered in colorful murals. Inside, you’ll discover all sorts of vintage treasures and quirky finds, from jewelry and home furnishings to clothing, shoes and purses. And, if you’re lucky, you might meet Bug, the sweet, snuggly shop cat often curled up somewhere cozy inside.
Bug wasn’t always so lucky. She was abandoned in a carrier in the parking lot behind the store, but thanks to Austin Pets Alive! (APA), she was rescued and adopted, becoming the first official APA Thrift store cat. She now greets customers and serves as a symbol of the compassion that defines this special place.
The 51st Street APA Thrift boutique opened its doors in 2017, but the
story of APA goes back much further. Founded in 1997 by local attorney James Collins and his then-wife Judy Ford, APA began in response to a heartbreaking statistic: Austin’s animal shelters had a kill rate of 87%. Through decades of tireless work, APA transformed Austin into the largest nokill city in the country, now boasting a save rate of 97%.
All five APA Thrift stores donate 100% of net proceeds to helping the animals most at risk of euthanasia. And these aren’t your average thrift stores: They carry high-quality new and gently used items at affordable prices, and each store has its own unique vibe.
A CUSTOMER FAVORITE
The 51st Street location is especially vibrant and one of my favorites. It’s bigger than it looks from the outside and, when you step inside, it feels like stepping into old Austin, with its funky, easy-going character. It’s also home to the largest women’s boutique section among all the APA thrift locations, with selfie-worthy displays and a friendly staff that loves chatting about movies, music, art and, of course, pets.
The APA’s mission has extended far beyond Austin. In August 2017, when Hurricane Harvey devastated Houston, it helped save more than 5,000 displaced animals. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it led the creation of the Human Animal Support Services project, collaborating with 22 of the largest U.S. municipalities to develop community-focused strategies to keep pets and families together.
In early 2021, when Texas was hit by a historic winter storm, APA transported more than 1,000 animals
from under-resourced shelters to partner organizations around the country saving them from euthanasia. Most recently, after the devastating floods in Central Texas this past July, APA was back in action, helping to reunite lost pets with families already struggling in the difficult aftermath. Even if you’re not in the mood to thrift, consider donating your gently used items (donation days/times are specific, so check the sign on the door). Store hours are Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday through Thursday from 12 to 6 p.m. If you’re inspired to do more, APA still needs fosters, adopters, donors and volunteers, especially to support communities impacted by this summer’s floods. Learn how you can get involved in the APA’s emergency flood response at www.bit.ly/40hz0RE.
Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a retired teacher, published author and freelance writer.
Left: Gus, the store cat at APA Thrift’s 51st Street location, was a rescue.
Jenna Sacco, owner and designer at Chasing Indigo, a Mueller jewelry store
Chasing a Dream
With support from the Mueller community, Jenna Sacco reopened her jewelry store, Chasing Indigo, after May’s surprise storm caused it to flood.
JJENNA SACCO, the creative force behind Chasing Indigo, the new jewelry boutique in Mueller, never expected her dream to take such a dramatic detour. After years of building her jewelry brand online and at local markets, 2025 was the year she finally brought her vision to life with a warm, welcoming brickand-mortar shop at 4524 Mattie St. Just four days after her grand opening, that dream was literally underwater.
Originally from the East Coast, Jenna now calls Austin home. It was here that her love for jewelry, especially rings, blossomed into her own business. “Jewelry has always been personal to me,” she says. “It
marks a moment, tells a story, says who you are without saying a word.”
Her early career in retail and jewelry brands taught her the ins and outs of the industry and gave her the courage to eventually go out on her own. In 2018, Chasing Indigo was born. It started as a small online shop and slowly grew through pop-ups and markets across the city.
After seven years of grassroots growth, Jenna made the leap. In February 2025, she signed the lease on a Mueller storefront and poured everything she had financially and emotionally into bringing her dream to life. The shop hosted a soft opening on April 12, officially opened May 2 and then, disaster struck.
DASHED EXPECTATIONS
Just four days later, on May 28, the powerful microburst storm that hit Mueller caused severe flooding in the building. Water swept through the store, forcing Chasing Indigo to shut its doors indefinitely. “It wasn’t just the damage to physical space. It was like watching your dream unravel,” Jenna says. “I had just opened. Everything was new. Everything was mine. And then it was all torn apart.”
The damage was overwhelming. Floors had to be completely ripped out. Two feet of drywall along every wall had to be removed. Display fixtures, merchandise, and precious inventory were ruined. And to make matters worse, there was no rent relief or income support during the six-week closure. “The emotional and financial toll was brutal,” Jenna admits. “But there was no time to wallow. We had to rebuild, and fast.”
And rebuild they did, thanks to a groundswell of support from the local community. Fellow small businesses like Lilla & Beth stepped up with encouragement and help. Customers rallied online, placing orders and sending kind messages. Strangers reached out with offers to share the story. Influencers helped spread the word. Jenna’s fiancé and small team went above and beyond. “The kindness people showed us reminded me that this community is really something special.”
On July 11, after weeks of working around the clock, Chasing Indigo reopened its doors.
But the journey isn’t over. “We’re
A SPECIAL MESSAGE TO MUELLER RESIDENTS
“I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for your patience, your encouragement, and for embracing this dream of mine, even when things didn’t go as planned. I can’t wait to welcome you back into the store and make up for lost time. I’m truly excited to be a part of the Mueller community and to build a lasting small business where people can shop, connect, create, and enjoy time together, with a drink in hand if they choose!”
—Jenna Sacco, Chasing Indigo
still recovering,” Jenna says. “We need our community now more than ever to help us get fully back on our feet.”
MORE THAN A STORE
More than just a jewelry store, Chasing Indigo is a full experience. Inside, you’ll find carefully crafted gemstone rings, charm bar creations, permanent jewelry, and the signature aesthetic that blends Southwestern soul, modern edge, and vintage charm. But the space itself is designed to be more than a retail destination. She envisions it as a hangout. Jenna invites customers to
sip a complimentary cocktail, celebrate a milestone with friends, or just drop by to say hello.
“I didn’t come this far just to come this far,” Jenna says with a smile. “This store is my heart. And I believe in what we’re building here.”
You can visit Chasing Indigo at 4524 Mattie St., #105. It is open Tuesday through Sunday—the most up-to-date hours are available on Google. Follow along on Instagram at @shopchasingindigo, or visit www. shopchasingindigo.com to browse, book a bracelet, or plan a private event.
Poet for Hire
Todd Boss helps others heal through the power of poetry.
BY CARMEN GRAY
OON SOME SUNDAYS, amid children frolicking and shoppers weaving through the Mueller Farmers’ Market stalls, you might spot a unique pop-up that doesn’t offer food or jewelry—but poems. And the person behind the “Poetry Therapy Clinic” is just as distinctive as the idea itself. His name is easy to remember—Todd Boss. I met with Boss on a warm afternoon at Batch, intrigued by the unusual concept. He was tapping away on his laptop, clearly deep in thought as I approached. I found Boss easy to talk to, as he’s a master communicator on many levels. I learned that Boss and his multi-Grammy-winning soprano fiancé, Hila Plitmann, moved into
the Mueller neighborhood in June 2024. But the journey that brought him here is a remarkable story in its own right.
Originally from Wisconsin’s Chippewa Valley, Boss sold all his possessions in 2018 and began traveling the world, house-sitting while ideas for future Emmy-winning and Grammy-nominated projects brewed within him.
CREATING CUSTOM POETRY
Already an acclaimed poet published by W.W. Norton & Co. with an MFA in Poetry from the University of Alaska–Anchorage, Boss began offering himself as a poet-for-hire fifteen years ago. Much like a commissioned painter, he wrote custom poems for private clients at $1,000 to $1,500 per piece.
“It entails three hours of interviews
followed by up to three months of writing,” he explains. The result: a signed print of the custom poem, an audio recording, and sometimes even inclusion in one of Boss’s collections, if he deems the work a good fit. Remarkably, he rarely had to advertise. Even without social media, word spread quickly about his gift for channeling emotion through poetry.
Over a decade, he worked with many clients, each with different backgrounds but a shared thread: a need for closure, healing, or acknowledgment. Many were navigating grief, transformation, or trauma. His work was helping people process and heal.
A FRESH PODCAST
A producer friend in Los Angeles (later to become his fiancé) took notice: “This would make a great
podcast,” she suggested. The idea took root and “There’s a Poem in That” launched on March 1, 2023—and has been resonating with audiences ever since. U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky calls it, “Fresh, saucy, and conventiondefying.”
Boss doesn’t follow the traditional path and clearly doesn’t need to. When I ask what first drew him to poetry, he smiles coyly and says, “I wrote poems for the women I dated in college. It really helped with communication.” Truly, that gave me a belly laugh, thinking back to my college days and the poems I still have nestled in a box somewhere at home. Poetry is powerful. And persuasive.
To support his podcast, Boss registered an 808-number (a nod to W.S. Merwin’s home district of
Haiku, Hawaii), subscribed to an online sound studio, and joined a distribution platform. Today, “There’s a Poem in That” serves as an audio stage for what Dr. Jon Hallberg, Director of the University of Minnesota Medical School’s Center for the Art of Medicine, calls “clinical poetry.”
What exactly does that mean?
“Well, there’s a National Association for Poetry Therapy,” Boss tells me, grinning. As a poet myself, one who relied on poetry to process my daughter’s health crisis years ago, I was instantly drawn to the idea. Boss wants to “create a conduit for poets to clients.” If he can’t deliver the right poem, he finds someone who can.
WORDS WITH IMPACT
One of the podcast’s most moving moments involved a Mexican immigrant named Phillip, who commissioned a poem to celebrate his new U.S. citizenship. Boss invited President Obama’s inaugural poet, Richard Blanco, to listen to all three hours of Phillip’s interviews. Blanco wrote a touching poem and surprised Phillip with it on the show. The result? Phillip was speechless, in tears. Blanco later told Boss it was one of the most meaningful moments of his career. As you can see, the process is rewarding for both parties while Boss creates the space for such experiences.
With poems published in The New Yorker, Poetry, NPR, The London Times, American Poetry Review, The Sun, and Best American Poetry, I asked Boss what drew him and Plitmann to Mueller. He said that after staying in an Airbnb in Hyde Park for nine months, he became
acquainted with the creative vibe that the city affords. The couple landed in nearby Mueller because they enjoy the neighborhood’s walking paths, green spaces, and close-knit feel.
When he’s not recording episodes or helping others find words for their deepest experiences, you might spot Boss at Lazarus, First Light Books, or Houndstooth Coffee, working on his latest unconventional project. One of them? A masterclass on something
called Rhapsodomancy. I’ll let you look that one up—it might just inspire you to try it yourself.
For more about Todd Boss, including links to his books and podcast, visit www.toddbossoriginals.com/about.
Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a retired teacher, published author and freelance writer.
40 Years of Caring
Mueller-based Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas keeps families with sick children together, close to the medical resources they need.
IIN DECEMBER OF 2023, Mueller magazine introduced you to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas (RMHC CTX) here in Mueller. This organization offers families more than just a place to stay; it provides hope, comfort, and community during medical crises.
On June 18, RMHC CTX celebrated four decades of impact in the community. More than 100 attendees, including current and former families, volunteers, staff, community leaders, and major donors, gathered for the milestone event. Guests enjoyed live music, face painting, and heartfelt remarks from leadership. Among the guests were longtime donors and supporters, as well as event sponsors.
Attendees enjoyed the sights and sounds of the celebration, complete with activities and entertainment for adults and children alike. But, beyond the bells and whistles and celebratory fun, the real story lies in the magic of the House itself and the more than 30,000 families that have walked
through its doors since RMHC CTX opened in 1985.
“At Ronald McDonald House Central Texas, we’ve spent four decades doing more than providing a place for families to stay. We’ve opened hearts,” said CEO Thomas Kim during the anniversary celebration. “We stand as a testament to what a dedicated team of staff and community can build together: a refuge amid crisis, a welcoming place to stay, a kitchen filled with warmth, a space where fear meets compassion, and families find strength.” That mission, Kim added, remains unchanged: to keep families close during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.
COMFORT IN CHALLENGING TIMES
Whether it’s a warm meal after a long day in the ICU, a quiet space in a Ronald McDonald Family Room, or a comfort item from a Happy Wheels Cart rolling through hospital hallways, every service at RMHC CTX is designed to ease the burden on families
with a seriously ill or injured child.
The first Ronald McDonald House in Central Texas opened in 1985 with just eight bedrooms and a single staff member. In the decades that followed, RMHC CTX grew not only in size but in scope. In 1993, it introduced the Healing Hearts program to support families grieving the loss of a child. In 2009, it launched its first Family Room—a quiet space just steps from a hospital bedside. By 2017, Happy Wheels Carts were rolling into seven local hospitals
to deliver care packages and moments of joy to appreciative families.
A turning point came in 2007, when RMHC CTX moved into its current Mueller location: a 30-bedroom home on the Dell Children’s campus. With its signature red roof, the Mueller House became a beacon of hope... and the heart of the organization’s operations.
“Today, the Mueller Ronald McDonald House is more than a place to sleep,” said Kristin Coulter, Chief Operating Officer.
“It’s where volunteers serve homecooked meals, kids play and learn, and families find the care and connection they need most.”
GROWING TO MEET NEW NEEDS
As Austin’s population booms and pediatric hospitals expand, RMHC CTX is expanding to meet the increased demand for services. Its growth hasn’t just been in square footage; it’s been in wraparound care. Over the years, the organization has added emotional support groups for caregivers, art and music therapy for children, playtime and tutoring for siblings, and even a day camp called Camp Red Bird, which helps kids process big emotions through creativity.
“At RMHC CTX, serving more families better is more than a goal; it’s our commitment,” said Coulter. “With the expansion of our Family Support Services programming, we’re deepening our roots in familycentered care.”
But despite all the progress, the need continues to outpace available resources. To address the growing demand, RMHC CTX launched the “A
Place Like Home” capital campaign in 2021 with a goal to add 51 new rooms for families in need. The campaign took on new urgency in 2024, as two new children’s hospitals opened in the Austin area.
In response, the organization adopted a phased approach. Phase 1 focuses on opening a new Ronald McDonald House with nine suites inside the Texas Children’s Hospital North Austin Campus, expected to serve families by early 2026. Simultaneously, plans are underway to expand the existing Mueller campus with additional guest rooms called “Phase 1.5.”
The final phase will bring RMHC CTX to its goal of 51 new rooms, but the path forward relies heavily on continued philanthropic support.
HEALING AND HOPE
“This expansion is about opening our doors even wider, creating more spaces for love, healing, and hope,” said Kim at the 40th anniversary celebration. “We hope it means more families hearing the word ‘yes.’ Yes to a warm bed. Yes to staying close to their child. Yes to feeling cared for during
the hardest days of their lives.”
Stories shared at the celebration underscored the lasting impact of RMHC CTX. One family recalled staying at the House three decades ago when their daughter was a newborn. She is now in her 30s. “It reminded us,” said one staff member, “that this work matters. These families are the heartbeat of our House.”
As the celebration came to a close, the message was clear: RMHC CTX has never just been about bricks and mortar. It’s about the people, the families, the volunteers, the staff, and the donors who have poured their hearts into creating a home-awayfrom-home for those who need it most.
For 40 years, Ronald McDonald House of Central Texas has stood for comfort, care, and community. And, as it looks toward the next 40 years, it does so with open arms and an unwavering commitment to making sure no family ever has to face a child’s illness alone.
For information about donations or volunteering opportunities visit www.rmhc-ctx.org.
Kid-Friendly Interiors
Follow these tips to create spaces in your home that are inviting for children, convenient—and free of clutter.
DDESIGNING A HOME
that works for both adults and children doesn’t mean sacrificing your personal style. Whether you’re raising toddlers, teens, or kids somewhere in between, you can create a space that feels calm, functional, and still authentically you. Here are some favorite ideas from Kristen Harper and Michelle Flores of Remodel Boutique.
CREATIVE KID ZONES
You don’t need a dedicated playroom to carve out space for fun. Instead, think of a “kids’ zone” as an integrated part of your living area.
Use a large area rug and low shelving to define the space.
• Built-in benches with storage drawers or a soft ottoman that hides toys work beautifully in shared rooms.
• Choose washable fabrics and durable finishes so your space feels grown-up while standing up to everyday messes.
KID-FRIENDLY KITCHENS
Make your kitchen accessible for all ages with small but impactful changes.
• Add lower pull-out drawers so kids can grab their own snacks and dishes.
• Use a breakfast bar with nearby outlets as a homework spot.
• Chalkboard or corkboard walls let you display art or family schedules.
• Opt for quartz or butcher block countertops and easy-to-clean backsplash tiles for a lowmaintenance finish.
• Add a slide-out step in the Kitchen. Hidden in cabinetry, this clever helper boosts kids up to the sink or counter.
CLEVER TOY STORAGE
Organization doesn’t have to mean plastic bins everywhere. Think vertically and get creative.
• Use shelving units with labeled baskets that can adapt with the seasons and changing interests.
• Rolling carts are great for art supplies or Lego collections and can tuck away under tables.
• Try floating shelves for books, and pegboards to hold puzzles or board games.
• Vintage trunks or coffee tables with hidden compartments add charm and storage.
COZY HOMEWORK NOOKS
A dedicated homework station helps keep schoolwork out of the dining room and fosters focus.
• Utilize that empty nook under the stairs, a hallway alcove, or even a closet with the door removed.
• A floating desk paired with a pegboard or wall organizer can do the trick.
• Good lighting, a pinboard for art and reminders, and a charging station for laptops or tablets are essential.
• If you have more space, a built-in desk wall with cubbies adds both function and flair.
CREATE A DROP ZONE
A family “drop zone” is your secret weapon. Whether it’s a hallway table, kitchen command center, or proper mudroom, having a designated spot for backpacks, keys, papers, and chargers helps keep clutter in check. Even better? Kids can take charge of their own belongings. The more they do, the less you have to manage, leading to less stress and more time for what really matters.
ENTRYWAYS THAT WORK
High-traffic areas like mudrooms and entryways can quickly become chaotic.
A little planning goes a long way.
• Create cubbies or lockers with hooks, baskets, and even charging drawers.
• Add a slim bench with lift-up storage and washable cushions.
• Durable, dark flooring—or a large, washable rug—helps manage muddy shoes and wet days.
• No room for a full mudroom? Even a DIY setup with baskets and a hook for each child near the door can make a significant difference.
BONUS IDEAS
• Soften sound in open layouts with rugs, curtains, or fabric wall panels.
• Combine safety and style with rounded furniture corners, slipresistant floors, and non-toxic materials.
• Refresh your space with paint! It’s the quickest way to transform a room, and kids can help choose the colors.
• Consider a pod swing or hammock chair indoors or on the patio for quiet reading time.
neighbors. Send submissions to hello@muellermagazine.com.
PERSPECTIVES
Rediscovering Joy
BY GALUH PUTRO
Joy does not always come in big things. Sometimes, it hides in small, quiet moments.
A smile from a friend.
A warm cup of coffee. The sound of birds in the morning.
For a long time, I forgot how to see it. Life felt too heavy.
I was busy with stress and sadness. But then, I paused.
I took a breath. And I looked around.
The sunlight shining through the window. A kind message from someone I love.
A walk in the park, feeling the wind on my face. These moments were still here. They were waiting for me to notice again.
I learned that joy is not always loud. It’s soft, like a quiet song. It doesn’t need to shout. It just needs us to listen.
I started to celebrate little victories: Getting out of bed on hard days. Finishing something I started. Saying something kind to myself. These small moments helped me feel alive.
I found joy in connection too.
Talking with someone who understands. Laughing with family.
Sitting with someone in silence, feeling safe.
We often wait for something big to be happy. A new job, a big success, a perfect day. But joy lives in today. Right now. In the small things we often forget.
I still have hard days. But now I know how to find light in them. I look for beauty in ordinary moments. And I let those moments hold me.
Joy is not something we chase. It is something we allow. Something we welcome, even in pain.
So today, I choose to see it. In the world.
In people. And in myself.
Joy has always been here. And I’m learning how to feel it again.
Galuh Putro is a poet who writes about self-growth, healing, and everyday life. His book “Journey to Myself” shares personal stories to inspire others.
REFLECTIONS OF DUSK
JACOB STAMBAUGH took this spellbinding photograph of Mueller Lake Park at the magical time of day when dusk turns to night. Stambaugh captures compelling visuals that tell stories, inspire, and connect. Explore his perspective and vision on Instagram @Jstam_photography.
Have a great image for Photo Op?
Submit your high-resolution shot to hello@ muellermagazine.com.
PHOTO OP
A DIFFERENT KIND OF DOCTOR
A local Doctor provides truly compassionate care and proven solutions for chronic pain and complicated conditions.
Care Rooted in Empathy & Experience
Do you ever wonder why some Doctors are so incredibly compassionate while others have a bedside manner better suited for the DMV?
In the case of Dr. Lucas Brown, DAOM, LAC of Rosedale Acupuncture & Wellness Center it is a case of true empathy. “In my 20’s I was dealing with crippling anxiety and insomnia. It was the type of chronic suffering not visible to the naked eye. Experiencing how isolating it was to endure in silence set me on a path to look for a better solution to chronic health issues.”
Dr. Brown's options were limited to two things. Prescription medications that often did not work and had come with a host of side effects, or to make lifestyle changes to attempt to limit the symptoms. "It was no way to live," he shares "I was young and should've been living a bright, vibrant life. Instead I was hesitant to leave the house, tired all the time and felt very alone. The only thing doctors were able to offer was another pill.” It wasn't until he went to an acupuncturist that he found real relief.
This is why I often refer to my practice as "The Last Resort With The Best Results," You've been everywhere else and been given the same disheartening prognosis, prescribed the same medications and told, "this is just something you're going to have to learn to live with."
"Acupuncture quite literally changed my life and I want to share that with the world," he proclaims.
Your Golden Years Should Be Golden
While in school he watched as his aunt began to suffer from Peripheral Neuropathy. "Your golden years should be golden, not plagued with insufferable pain while doctors and specialists tell you there is nothing they can do."
Understanding that Eastern Medicine excels where Western Medicine fails, Dr. Brown set forth to develop treatment protocols for all variations of Peripheral Neuropathy (including diabetic and chemotherapy-induced) and now has a 90% success rate in treating this once difficult to manage condition.
"I was tired of seeing the older generation suffer unnecessarily," shares Dr. Brown. "Diagnosing them as just getting older and giving them a treatment plan of ‘you're just going to have to get used to it’ has never sat well with me so I wanted to offer them a real option for treatment and care."
Dr. Brown has designed similar treatment protocols for other complicated, chronic conditions including fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, post- shingles pain, and even macular degeneration. While each patient plan is tailored specifically to the patient's concern and goals, all of his treatments are based on a framework that's over fifteen years in the making.
In addition Dr. Brown isn't opposed to more modern medical solutions. One of those advancements is ATP Resonance Bio Therapy, originally developed by NASA, it aids nerves in regeneration by providing them
the nutrients they need to repair and renew, "very similar to what water does for a plant!"
The Magic of Compassionate Care
And what do those in his care have to say? "Dr Brown looked me in my eyes and wanted to know about me, not just my condition. I feel like a person, not just a patient," shares Joan. "In fact I don't think he's never used the word patient." Others proclaim "he saved my life", "his neuropathy treatments gave me my life back, and "it's a miracle he treated my fibromyalgia, I don't know how else to explain it."
Dr. Brown has a long personal history in complicated, difficult to understand conditions and understands how tragic it can all be if left untreated. "I have sat where my patients sit. I've experienced their pain and suffering on an intimate level. It's why I practice the brand of medicine I do and why I've made it my life's mission to treat the "untreatable." It brings me such incredible joy when I get to say, "I can help you!"
Dr. Brown and his staff specialize in treating chro nic pain, complicated neurological conditions and autoimmune diseases that leave other professionals scratching their heads. D r. Lucas Brown, DAOM, LAc has won ‘Best Acupuncturist’ in Austin fo r 8 years running.
