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Published by Optimus Media Group, LLC
PUBLISHER | CATHY PAYNE
cathy@georgetownview.com
Welcome spring!
For me, April feels like the most cheerful month. Beautiful, vibrant colors begin to pop up all over as the outdoors come to life. I’ve enjoyed taking advantage of the warmer weather by strolling through the Texas Tulips field near Dallas and embracing the pickleball trend with friends.
In this issue, you’ll find great ways to celebrate spring. For those looking to breathe new life into their home, interior designer Gigi Kinsey shares top home trends for 2023 as well as ideas to enhance your personal oasis. (You’ll also want to check out our other story on her new book, A Woman’s Guide to House Flipping.) Our cover story also highlights Austin Window Fashions’ new showroom in Georgetown and offers tips to help you see your home in a better light.
The end of the school year is in view and we understand the importance of finding fun and engaging activities for summer vacation. This month’s Worth the Drive features a few popular destinations and a hidden gem or two that are sure to keep kids entertained while school’s out.
Perhaps you’re also considering a visit to Six Flags this summer. Real Texans might say you don’t have to be a vexillologist to know it’s not just a catchy name for a theme park, so I hope you’ll take a brief look of the six flags that made Texas, Texas on page 48.
Speaking of trips, you'll also find a story on the Wilco Regional Animal Shelter’s new program that allows pet lovers to give dogs a much-needed break from shelter life by taking them on field trips around town.
Lastly, if you’re looking to spread some love, be sure to check out our Food page for some creative takes on the charcuterie trend.
Wishing all our readers a happy and joyous Easter! May your day be filled with love, happiness, and plenty of chocolate!
Like many of the best in her craft, Cathy has a specialized degree—in her case, hard science—and a gift for writing. She found her voice and fulfillment reporting and writing news and magazine features for a regional Central Texas audience. Along with serving as the publisher of the Georgetown View, Cathy oversees multiple news magazines, marketing campaigns, and books.
EDITOR | CHARLOTTE KOVALCHUK
charlotte@georgetownview.com
SENIOR WRITER
Ann Marie Kennon
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Emily Tilly • Linda A. Thornton
EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR
Camy Reynolds
GRAPHICS & DESIGN
Zion Eaton • Sandra Evans
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rudy Ximenez • Christianna Bettis
Jesse Payne
ADVERTISING
Mark Elliott 512-240-2267 • 512-598-3500 mark@georgetownview.com
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Copyright © 2023 All rights reserved. Georgetown View is mailed monthly by USPS to homes and businesses in Georgetown, TX zip codes. Mail may be sent to: Georgetown View, P.O. Box 203, Jarrell, TX 76537.
Taylor Wadsworth, Austin Window Fashions’ vice president of sales and marketing, still remembers the day her father asked her to join his company. At the time, he had showrooms in Austin and San Antonio. Now, six years later, a Marble Falls location and new showroom in Georgetown have been added to the flourishing window treatment business.
The beauty of showrooms, she says, is that the customer experience is not limited to flipping through small swatches at home but rather viewing and handling full sized displays in person. Customers can manipulate the blinds, shades, and shutters to familiarize themselves with the operating system of each. The ability to see and touch fabrics and finishes is invaluable to the decision-making process. As well, if customers bring measurements, staff can provide an on-the-spot price quote, with professional measurements by a design expert to follow.
For nearly 40 years, Austin Window Fashions has worked hard to create just the right formula for meeting clients’ needs and the 1,000-plus five-star reviews they’ve received is just one of the ways they track accomplishments. Now in its second generation, this family business prides itself on maintaining a commitment to customer service and satisfaction.
Austin Window Fashions does what they say they are going to do, which is hard to come by these days. During the 2021 snowstorm, we had multiple clients who lost power tell us the only thing that kept their homes warm were the shutters covering their windows.
~Taylor Wadsworth, Austin Window Fashions’ vice president of sales and marketing
Nearly all their professional designers and installers have been with the company for more than 15 years. Understanding that window treatments are not a frequent purchase for most homeowners, staff members take great care to explain and simplify their place in and details of the process. Customers also relate a great sense of security knowing a detailed product warranty is posted on the company website.
When it comes to pricing, customers are always surprised to find that Austin Window Fashions offers competitive prices. This is primarily because they are the largest distributor of Hunter Douglas products in Texas and also one of the largest factory direct retailers of plantation shutters in the country, which accounts for 40 percent of their business.
Still growing, but never taking their success for granted, Austin Window Fashions is always fine tuning their commitment to service. Going above and beyond, they strive to make sure every customer encounter is a positive one.
Educating customers is an important service Austin Window Fashions is always quick to provide, so here are some pointers from the professionals:
Consider new design directions as an inspiration for creating your unique style:
• Smart technology: With your voice, remote, app, phone, or smart home device, smart blinds can automatically close when the sun is at its strongest and then open to let in natural heat during the day.
• Multi-functionality: Window coverings that are functional and decorative, such as roller shades with built-in blackout lining.
• Minimalism: Simple, understated designs, like side panel draperies in cotton or linen.
• Color: Bold colors and patterns make a distinctive statement.
• Texture: Woven fabrics, linens, tassels, or beads add visual interest.
• Environmentally friendly materials: Natural and sustainable materials add a rustic vibe while helping the planet.
• Cordless blinds and shades are child- and pet-proof. They operate with a simple mechanism that enables you to raise and lower the slats without dangling cords.
• Room darkening shades, blinds, and shutters provide custom light control. Blackout shades create complete darkness; cellular shades or roller blinds dim the light.
• Top down, bottom up shades are a unique concept for energy efficiency and privacy.
• Austin Window Fashions’ award-winning cellular shades are specially insulated to block drafts and keep out heat.
? Prepare before you purchase:
• Pricing: Don’t let your budget discourage you. With so many choices, you’ll be able to stay in style while remaining within your dollar limit.
• Functionality: How much light do you want to let in? Do you have any privacy concerns? Are there any safety hazards (young children or pets)?
• Style: What will complement the style of your home? Simple roller blinds for a contemporary look? Blinds or shutters for a more traditional style?
• Privacy: Do you live in a busy area or close to neighbors? Blackout shades are always an option. Privacy shades or blinds with liners filter natural light into the room.
Mention this story and receive ½ off a shutter upgrade or an additional 10% off Hunter Douglas motorized blinds or shades. For more information, call 512-886-6381 or scan the QR code.
Window treatments not only add design and decor to your home, they also provide security, privacy, and energy efficiency.
It doesn't get any better than this. Like New Brownstone, never lived in end unit, with incredible views from the 4th floor patio....don't worry about stairs the elevator makes all the effort. Walking distance to Restaurants, Bars, Gyms, Employment Centers....and the list goes on. 1st floor is a large 2 car garage, full bath and a bonus room that has a closet and an exterior personal door. 2nd floor has the family room a 1/2 bath, eat in kitchen with a large island/breakfast bar. 3rd floor is the Master en suite which includes walk in closet and shower, double vanity and private water closet, and a 2nd Bedroom with its own full bath and walk in closet. 4th floor has the covered balcony with incredible views, its own 1/2 bath and a bonus room that could serve as a bedroom,
Perfect alternative to Dorm life, parents check out the condo perfect for UT and St. Ed's students! An incredible opportunity condo, 2 bedroom and 2 bath that is right in the heart of where everyone wants to be. This home needs complete renovation, but it is truly a diamond in the rough. Balcony is accessible from the family room and the master as well, overlooks the pools and barbecue area. 3 miles from the capital and from UT, this place would make an awesome option to a dorm for a student, for the same money as rental own an appreciating asset close to parks, food, shopping, and the River.
This is the one nice open floor plan with the master en suite down other beds and great room up, large open airy eat in kitchen that is open to the family room, perfect for entertaining or cozy family movie nights. Fenced back yard with a storage shed has lots of possibilities. Within walking distance of the crown jewel of Georgetown the San Gabriel Park and River. Close to Highways, employment
In 2017, Eddie Castro and Josh Fulfer started their landscaping business, literally, from the ground up from humble beginnings using just a push mower and broom to beautify lawns. “We started off small like everyone else,” Eddie says.
With his experience mowing and treating lawns for a pest control company and Josh’s background in irrigation and landscaping, the two decided to join forces on Landscape Designs and Lawn Care. Each brought knowledge of different parts of Central Texas. Born and raised in Jarrell, Eddie knew the Jarrell, Georgetown, and Round Rock area, while Josh was familiar with Salado, Belton, and Temple. “He had a bunch of contacts up there, and I had contacts down here. That helped us grow,” Eddie says.
Today, Landscape Designs and Lawn Care has grown from “just some regular mowing company” to a full-service lawn maintenance and irrigation installation business.
Unlike many landscaping companies that drop services along the way, Landscape Designs has stayed true to its roots. Eddie says, “Usually when people grow, they start mowing lawns and do landscaping, or construction and they end up not doing lawns anymore, just landscaping or construction. They slowly but surely leave some things behind. We’ve never left anything behind.”
Providing landscaping, lawn care, irrigation installation and repair, and hardscapes, Landscape Designs and Lawn Care takes the burden of lawn maintenance off homeowners and business owners in the Central Texas area, including HOAs and schools in Georgetown.
This year, he plans to enhance services by adding a residential customer manager. “A lot of other companies provide customer service but nine times out of 10, that same person talking to you about your yard has to go and work on a different project that week or next, and if you have questions, you’re not their main focus. We’re going to have that main focus.” Scan
Planting timeline: When it comes to deciding when to fill your yard with plants, Eddie advises Texans to be mindful of the recommended dates on products. “I always recommend—if you’re going to put plants in your bed or redo your landscape, and if you’re planning to spend a pretty penny on these plants—to play it safe and wait until April. I’ve seen people get excited when there are a couple warm days in March, and the next thing you know, there’s a random freeze and all your plants are dead. We can have a beautiful March and an early spring, but you never know in Texas.”
Pre-emergent: Pre-emergent herbicides stop weeds before they germinate and should be applied in March/April.
Insecticides: Eddie recommends using insecticides in late March/early April to guard against insects like earthworms and snails that can eat plant roots and leaves.
Fertilizer: Fertilize your lawn at least twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, to promote strong root development, encourage lush green growth, and enhance the overall health and appearance of your lawn throughout the growing season. Be sure to read ratio labels before applying fertilizer, as putting too much fertilizer will burn your grass up.
Post-emergent: Post-emergent herbicides attack weeds after they appear and should be used in September/ October.
Whether you need a kitchen update or a full-scale remodel, we can work with your vision and your budget.
Bath remodels are our #1 request. Looking for a luxury shower or a spa retreat? Let us make your dream a reality
Our flooring consists of tile, wood, luxury vinyl plank, and carpeting With endless styles and detailing to choose from, let us bring the showroom to you!
Georgetown
After more than 10 years working with each other in the construction industry, Dylan Jensen, Joe O’Jibway, and Heather Merz all came to the same conclusion: it was time to write their own story and define their version of success. They longed for a company culture that would enable them to spend time fostering relationships with their clients and the contractors they work with every day. In 2021, they took a deep breath and, together, founded Paradigm Commercial.
Brainstorming for the right company name, their goal was to exemplify thinking outside of the box. Promoting creativity wasn’t enough; they wanted clients to know their focus would be to work hard to find creative alternatives rather than just standard solutions. In the same way that paradigms shift with new ways of thinking, their company, appropriately named Paradigm Commercial, represented a shift toward mirroring their professional lives with their personal lives by maintaining a focus on people.
Each of Paradigm’s team members plays a key role in its success. Having grown up in Georgetown, Dylan is delighted to now play a key role in its growth. He manages client relations and preconstruction, overseeing efforts to determine costs and requirements associated with new projects by collaborating with clients, architects, and engineers. Joe is involved with production and operations, managing the projects from start to finish. He oversees quality control, safety initiatives, and scheduling. Heather handles the company’s financial affairs and internal operations, building on her 16+ years in the construction industry. By establishing both policies and relationships that are essential to their growth and success, Heather prepares and analyzes all financial information.
Together, they have hand-picked a team consisting of people who emulate the company’s core values. Heather says, “Our team's success is based on our ability to leverage our diverse building experience. Every team mem-
ber brings their own skill set, experience, and local market knowledge that has been a value-add to our clients. We are committed to improving upon what has been done in the past, and are always looking for ways to grow as a company.”
While Paradigm specializes in commercial construction throughout Central Texas, they decided to build their corporate headquarters in Georgetown. Dylan says, “We want to let the community know we have planted our roots in Georgetown intentionally. Our goal is to be the contractor of choice for companies in the area. We are looking forward to growing with Georgetown!”
Paradigm offers a variety of services for commercial construction, from interior renovations to ground-up buildings, and product types such as office, retail, medical, hospitality, and industrial. Joe says, “We are a turnkey partner who reduces schedules, manages costs, and helps with the permitting and design processes, eliminating the need for the client to be fully involved, allowing them to prioritize their time back to their own company’s operations.”
Paradigm recently completed a 60,000sf interior office and lab project for Oculus VR, Inc., a subsidiary of Meta (Facebook), while working alongside their client based out of the Philippines, Newcore Industries. Paradigm was tasked with finding creative value engineering solutions to reduce the overall budget by over 30 percent.
ICON, a leader in advanced construction and 3D printing, worked with Paradigm to build their corporate headquarters in Austin. Wolf Ranch will be the site of ICON’s first-of-its-kind 3D home community.
Remodeling their Austin office while still occupied, global real estate firm Jones Lang LaSalle partnered with Paradigm to coordinate the construction efforts and expansion of their office in phases to allow for operations to continue unaffected.
Chubbies, Inc. chose Paradigm to build their headquarters in Austin. Along with the standard office, conference, and collaboration areas, the space incorporates a photo studio, and custom-branded wallpaper and carpet.
Redbird Flight Simulations, a leader in flight training devices and software, chose Paradigm to finish out their new office and warehouse space in Kyle, Texas. The project boasts 50,000+sf of industrial and production space.
Developers Scott Stribling and Troy Hellmann selected Paradigm to be the general contractors for one of Georgetown’s newest projects, Block 37. This 85,000+sf building will feature a mixed-use space of office, retail and restaurants located just off the Square. Phase 1 will break ground in summer 2023.
Dylan, Joe, and Heather have been on the same page from the beginning when it comes to defining their company’s core values: family, accountability, trust, communication, creativity, and fun. These values shape the ways they produce their work, conduct their business, and live their lives. It’s safe to say that by making the fundamental changes in their approach to both construction management services and their organization as a whole, the Paradigm team is achieving the version of success they had envisioned!
Located in the beautiful countryside, Calumet offers a variety of homes in the City of Jarrell. The Calumet Subdivision is a master planned community located at 891 W FM 487 near Jarrell High School. It is ideally located with quick access to IH 35. The subdivision offers competitively priced single-family homes, multi-family homes and townhomes to fit a variety of needs.
There will be 55 townhomes in the Subdivision with a variety of two and three bedroom units. They will be nicely appointed and will provide a more cost effective entry for the home buyer along with opportunities for the multi-family investor.
• Open Concept Floorplans & 2 Car Garage
• City of Jarrell Utilities
• Engineered Foundations
• R13 Walles with R37 Ceiling
• Firewall Between Units
• Energy Efficient Features & Appliances
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Get ready to see a lot of nature-inspired home décor, including indoor plants, earth tones, and natural materials like wood, stone, and ceramic. “We’re getting out of the gray flooring and more to the real brown tones again – natural wood use instead of sleek, non-textured finishes,” Gigi says.
More than just a pop of color, accent walls are a great way to define a space in a variety of ways. “Texture and pattern can also create a beautiful accent in a room. Wallpaper is making a comeback with geometric designs or super large patterns. Stone or brick walls add texture and interest. Using wood trim in unusual patterns on a wall with a bold or deep paint color can also make for a big statement in a room.”
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
If there’s one thing the pandemic taught us as we spent much of our time at home over the last few years, it’s that interior design has a profound impact on our well-being. “Your home interior should be well thought out,” interior designer Gigi Kinsey says. “It must provide for all your functional needs, appeal to your unique sense of beauty, and create the mood you want for the individual spaces. Your home should be your place of peace and a welcome oasis to you each day. Achieving this is always by design, never by chance.”
For tips on designing or upgrading your personal oasis, we turned to Gigi to find out what home trends will dominate in 2023. This year, she says, design trends like cool colors and open-concept floor plans are on their way out; 2023 is all about warm color palettes, separate spaces, and a return to nature.
This year will see a movement away from cool grays and whites to warm whites and earth tones like peach and sage green. “We use a lot of Sherwin-Williams Pure White. As well, SW Evergreen Fog is a beautiful, nature-inspired green that pairs beautifully with the stained woods. Another SW color that is great for accent is Urbane Bronze, and Benjamin Moore chose Raspberry Blush as the color of the year. You will see more rich, saturated colors like this being used as accent walls, on furniture, or in accessories.”
With its vintage appeal and minimalistic style, mid-century modern will continue to be a popular design choice, Gigi says, adding, “vintage furniture mixed with the new keeps it from being boring. Consider painting a vintage piece and adding some amazing cabinet hardware to dress it up. Using unique pieces that you love will help keep your space from looking cookie cutter and express your personal taste.”
While stainless steel appliances will continue to be the top seller in kitchen appliances, Gigi says, we will be seeing some beautiful whites and graphite finishes in higher-end appliance selections. “Also, vibrant and fun colors are big this year, as are retro-style appliances more colorful cabinets and teal and pink refrigerators like many homes had in the 50s and 60s.”
With people working, studying, or living at home during COVID, open-concept floor plans have fallen by the wayside in favor of separate spaces—from home gyms, offices, and libraries to homeschooling rooms. “I hear people saying, ‘I need to shut myself off [from the rest of the house].’ A lot more women are homeschooling and need to be able to shut the door and have that space. People are seeking more solitary spaces."
When the Wilco Regional Animal Shelter launched a Doggy Day Out program in December, volunteer Korri Bindl jumped at another chance to give the dogs a much-needed break from shelter life. A staff-member-turned-volunteer, she has strived to make the dogs’ temporary stay “a little better,” whether by cleaning kennels, playing with them in the yard, or taking them on field trips around Georgetown.
The Doggy Day Out program opened to the public in February and allows volunteers and community members to take a shelter dog on an outing of their choosing that also fits the dog’s personality. “Some dogs just love a good car ride, and this program lets people fill that void for the dog, even if just for an afternoon,” Shelter Community Programs Coordinator April Peiffer says. “We have a list of dogs who make great hiking buddies, those who love a fun car ride and drop-in at your favorite local coffee shop for a Puppuccino, and more.”
Korri and her canine companions have been all over Georgetown, from San Gabriel for a walk in the park to the Square for Market Days and the Red Poppy Festival. April calls the program a fun way to give back to the community that includes an opportunity to meet fellow animal lovers (some of whom Korri has recruited as volunteers) and also allow volunteers to learn more about the dogs. With the shelter so full, it is a challenge for staff to keep up with personalities and profiles, so many of the dogs don’t have information adopters are looking for, such as whether they are housebroken, how they act around kids, and if they are dog and cat-friendly. “The person taking the dog on the field trip may learn some valuable information about the dog that we wouldn’t otherwise get, which could in turn provide a morsel of information that will help her find a loving new home,” April says.
Those who would like to become a Doggy Day Out foster can fill out a day foster agreement and pick up a dog during shelter hours from noon to 6pm daily. A staff member will help them select a dog that is best matched for the activity the day foster would like to participate in. Fosters are encouraged to take photos and videos of their adventure together and share them with staff for promotional use as well as family and friends to help find a forever home for their friend for the day.
She calls the program a phenomenal success. “We've had day fosters turn into overnight fosters turn into adopters. We are so incredibly pleased and excited for this new opportunity for the dogs!” One of their favorite parts of the program has been getting the photos, videos, and comments back from people at the end of their day. At least two of the dogs that have participated in Doggy Day Out have been adopted. “We don't know for sure that information we learned from their temporary fosters led to their adoptions, but it absolutely helped us be able to do the very best job possible when working to find those homes for them.”
For Korri, helping shelter dogs and watching them get adopted has been a rewarding, though bittersweet, experience. “I’ve met a lot of amazing, amazing dogs. The first foster I ever had, after he was adopted, if anyone brought up his name I cried. I got really attached. People have said to me, ‘How can you do it? I wouldn’t be able to do it.’ Knowing you helped a dog along the way, and they’re living their best life now, is very fulfilling.”
Situated on some of the most scenic land in Williamson County, The Canyons rests atop rolling hills looking out over the vast landscape. Offering an abundance of natural beauty and lush vistas, The Canyons has been carefully planned to integrate seamlessly into the natural environment. The development of The Canyons pays homage to the rich heritage of the land and encourages the continuation of this existing beauty to create a timeless natural environment. The homes in The Canyons are considered part of a cohesive element that melds the natural beauty with a place to call home.
was created to take a specialized approach to back and neck pain, scoliosis, and spinal deformity that combines the expertise of fellowship-trained spine surgeons, physical medicine MDs, spine therapists, and advanced diagnostics all under one roof.
The regional spine center includes four fellowship-trained spine surgeons (the highest level of medical education possible) and four spine MDs who specialize in non-surgical treatment of back and neck pain. Spine and scoliosis patients from all over the U.S. and Mexico choose Texas Spine & Scoliosis Center one of
only two centers in Texas to be included in SpineCenterNetwork.com's national listing of credentialed spine centers of excellence. The center is also designated as a Blue Distinction regional spine center by Blue Cross Blue Shield.
As Texas Spine & Scoliosis believes the best health care is chosen by a well-informed consumer, the center provides a free, educational Back to Life Journal and spine encyclopedia at TexasSpineandScoliosis. com, as well as a Home Remedy Book patients can request through the website or by calling 512-324-3580.
“The most advanced treatment for a herniated disc is artificial disc replacement, which preserves the natural motion of the spine instead of locking two vertebrae together with a spinal fusion,” explains Dr. John Stokes, a fellowship-trained spine surgeon at Texas Spine & Scoliosis. “The Mobi-C artificial disc is designed to replicate the natural motion of the vertebrae in the neck.”
• Retains motion of the vertebrae
• Prevents damage to other levels
• Patients can go home same day
• Less painful surgery than a fusion
For patients who want to avoid surgery, spinal injections are a less invasive alternative. “Unlike a pill, a spinal injection applies pain medication directly to the disc level that is causing pain symptoms. Many times this can help them get back to activity without surgery,” explains Dr. Eric Mayer, a fellowship-trained specialist in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Texas Spine & Scoliosis. Dr. Mayer and Dr. Kunj Amin, another fellowship-trained spine MD, see back and neck pain patients in the Texas Spine & Scoliosis Round Rock/Georgetown office.
• Quicker recovery
• No bone graft required
• Less blood loss during surgery
MAIN OFFICE: 1004 West 32nd Street, Suite 200 • Austin, TX Appointments & Referrals: 512-324-3580
SATELLITE OFFICES:
Round Rock: 301 Seton Pkwy., #402, Round Rock, TX
Kyle: 5103 Kyle Center Drive, Suite 103, Kyle, TX
Burnet: 200 John W. Hoover Pkwy, Bldg 3, Burnet, TX
In advance of surgery, Dr. Eeric Truumees, spine surgeon at Texas Spine & Scoliosis, consults with Dr. Lee Moroz on a patient’s diagnostic injection to determine which level is the likely cause of pain symptoms. The multi-disciplinary team approach makes the regional spine center of excellence unique.
Distinctly Christ-Centered. Academically Excellent.
Grace Academy is a K-12 classical Christian school in Georgetown, TX. At Grace Academy, we desire to cultivate students of wisdom and virtue through a Christ-centered and academically excellent education. Our goal is to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and vision necessary to be effective leaders and servants for Christ in a wide variety of professions and vocations.
Call (512) 864-9500 or connect with us at Gracetx.org. Enrollment is open and a few spots remain.
Don’t just set them apart from the world , equip them to lead it.
Sitting in her cozy 1950s home-turned-Airbnb on Church Street, Gigi Kinsey calls it her favorite of all the houses she has flipped over the last two years. “[My husband Doug and I] actually come here sometimes after we have dinner on the Square. It is just the warmest, most inviting little house, and we get excited for our guests to come and appreciate it.”
From interior designer to house flipper and now author, Gigi hopes her success story empowers other women to gain the kind of financial freedom that ultimately leads to a legacy of generational wealth.
When Gigi began flipping houses in 2021, she found herself in a segment of the real estate industry that was still “a good old boys club with women few and far between.” As such, inspiring more women to join the real estate world is one of the goals of her new book, A Woman’s Guide to House Flipping: Creating a 6-Figure Income Now & Generational Wealth for the Future. She says, “My vision is to see a movement of modern-day Proverbs 31 women who ‘consider fields and buy them’ and who ‘see to it that their trading is profitable.’ ”
Her own experience flipping houses—buying, rehabbing, and reselling a house—began on the day Winter Storm Uri hit Texas. She and her husband were checking out a residence and, despite a rocky start followed by renovation challenges and a yearlong process, her first house flipping project was a success that earned her nearly $100,000. “I realized this was an opportunity for women just like me,” Gigi says. “There are not many opportunities for women to make that kind of big money. This is true especially if they have families, or perhaps they have been taking a corporate salary for 30 years and don’t realize they can grab a hold of that and make a lot of money flipping.”
A Woman’s Guide to House Flipping is full of success stories like Gigi’s—“women in different seasons of life in different situations in different areas of the country who were all able to flip a house successfully,” she says. “I don’t care who you are, you can get into real estate investing.”
Throughout the book, she shares house flipping tips, including a rehabbing checklist and the Golden Formula for flipping. “The whole point is to try and make it as simple and informative as possible, step by step, from the perspective of a person who is used to rehab, to someone who has never done one.”
Gigi is already planning her next book, in which she will share the formula for buying residential properties to build a real estate portfolio, as well as how to buy, rehab, and then decide what kind of rental it should be—long-, mid-, or short-term. “Many are interested in Airbnbs and I’ll be discussing that a great deal. Basically, the book will teach people to use real estate to earn income now, and build wealth for the future.”
by Charlotte Kovalchuk
Each day, Georgetown ISD strives to set students up for success through its Career Technical Education (CTE) program – students like Peyton Krzywonski, who was the No. 2 teen chef in America last year, or the automotive students who built an electric car and were invited to tour the Tesla facility in Austin. Or the accounting students who are partnering with local nonprofits to provide tax preparation assistance.
Equipping these future industry leaders is the goal of the CTE program, which is composed of 10 career clusters that provide students with the opportunity to learn important college and career readiness skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, organizational skills, decision making,
and professionalism. Furthermore, students can choose to sit for certification exams, offered in select fields, that equip them with the necessary credentials to kickstart their professional careers as soon as they graduate.
Another focus is character building, and the district’s 120 coaches believe athletics is the perfect place for the character development program they’ve implemented called 2Words. Each 10-minute video lesson highlights just two words, such as “Take Five,” a reminder about why a mental break is just as important during a game as during an argument, and “Try Again,” which focuses on learning from mistakes and being persistent.
TIPS FROM THE EXPERTS: Leave it to Georgetown ISD to teach students life skills under the guise of fun. Even parents can glean valuable insights from the experts on how to equip their teens with the essential life skills required to thrive in the real world.
When retired bank executive Marjorie L. Anderson decided to write a book as a legacy for her grandchildren, she never imagined so many parents and grandparents would encourage her to publish it. After interviewing 100 middle and high school students, she was motivated to provide a simple, basic understanding of money management.
Her book, The Key: Wise Money Choices for Teens, available in English and Spanish, is divided into five different chapters/lessons and includes a glossary of financial terms and a list of resources.
- What is finance
- Money management
- Personal responsibility/philanthropy
- Saving and investing
- Credit/debit cards
By presenting strategies for saving and earning money, advocating against compulsive spending, and offering a beginner's guide to navigating the stock market, her book not only piqued the interests of teens, but also earned the coveted title of "2019-2020 Best of the Best" in the Children's Nonfiction category at Austin's Reader Views Literary Choice Awards.
Infusing music into family food preparation, or turning sewing and cleaning lessons into fun-filled events, is another strategy that can help elevate mundane chores to entertaining fami ly activities. Encouraging your teen to cook a meal as a gift can be a great motivator, and imparting essential laundry skills can also prove beneficial - some sports teams even rotate jersey cleaning duties among their members.
Let your teen know where you stand on being the backup for last minute projects. Encourage each to use his or her time well by providing some ideas—using a white board, scheduling due date phone reminders, creating a to-do list, or using a task app. Set an example by demonstrating how you plan for your upcoming week.
Practicing good manners goes beyond saying “please” and “thank you.” Learning important social graces—making eye contact, shaking hands when greeting someone, coughing into an elbow, and refraining from texting when in a social setting—can start at home. Consider having your teen dress up and accompany you to social events or make an appointment for a local college tour and encourage your student to see the student tour guides as role models.
If your teen shows an affinity for a certain career, act on it! Request college brochures and have them mailed to your teen. Also, when convenient, make an appointment to meet with a local business owner. A formal setting will make a teen feel important and excited about future prospects. It is also important to set a meeting for the parent and student to meet with a counselor together to discuss how to proceed and create realistic objectives.
Create a comprehensive driving contract for your teen, emphasizing the significance of safe driving practices and their monetary responsibility for any traffic violations. Additionally, consider taking your teen along for car servicing sessions to learn the basics of automotive maintenance.
FROM A PARENT: Among the practical and sentimental gifts for a graduate, consider a gift-wrapped tube of toothpaste accompanied by the following note, “Decision making is like a tube of toothpaste. Once it’s squeezed out, there is no way it’s going back into the tube!” Hopefully your graduate will remember your sage advice and smile each time he or she prepares to brush.
For more information about Georgetown ISD or “The Key,” scan the QR code or go to:
georgetownisd.org
challenge4teens.com
Get ready to immerse yourself in an exciting cinematic experience at Georgetown's Palace Theatre. Just three days before she takes the stage at the Two Step Inn Music Festival in San Gabriel park, country music superstar Tanya Tucker will be featured in the special screening of "The Return of Tanya Tucker: Featuring Brandi Carlile."
The film, which won the Audience Award at the 2022 SXSW Film Festival, tells the inspiring story of Tanya's resurgence in the music industry. Guests will even get the chance to ask questions during the Q&A session conducted by Kathlyn Horan, award-winning director and producer, and founder of TinFish Films, who is flying in especially for the occasion.
Trailblazing, hell-raising country music legend Tanya Tucker defied the standards of how a woman in country music was supposed to behave. Decades after Tanya slipped from the spotlight, rising Americana music star Brandi Carlile took it upon herself to write an entire album for her hero based on Tanya’s extraordinary
life, spurring the greatest comeback in country music history.
The story follows Tanya’s creative and bumpy ride back to the top as Brandi encourages her to push past her fears to reach a new audience. The writing, the experimenting, and refining of her new music mix with all that came before using rare archives to delve into Tanya’s history, which began in a single wide trailer in Seminole, Texas.
Reviewers call it "a rousing exploration of an unexpected friendship built on the joy of a perfectly timed creative collaboration."
The excitement doesn't end when the movie wraps. Everyone who attends the screening will receive a wristband that will grant admission to a musical event right next to the theater on the Georgetown Square. The wristband includes one free drink ticket to enjoy the music by Natalie Metcalf at Barrels & Amps.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the magic and historic return of Tanya Tucker on the big screen.
• NETJETS REPORTS IT WILL HAVE 1,000 JETS IN ITS FLEET BY THE END OF NEXT YEAR.
• GENERAL DYNAMICS REPORTS ITS FBO SALES HAVE RECOVERED TO NEARLY 20 PERCENT AHEAD OF PREPANDEMIC HIGHS.
• GULFSTREAM DELIVERED MORE THAN 120 PLANES IN 2022.
THE BOTTOM LINE: PRIVATE AVIATION IS STEADILY BECOMING MORE AFFORDABLE FOR BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUALS WHO DO NOT HAVE TO BE AMONG THE ULTRA WEALTHY.
On October 29 last year, 160 Cessna Citations were parked at the Georgetown airport more aircraft than at any one time since World War II, when the airfield was a training center.
That high volume was due to the Citation Jet Pilots Association’s decision to hold its 2022 convention in Austin. Association CEO Trent Corcia says, “After looking at all the airports in the Austin area, we chose Georgetown as much for its size and access as for the reputation of and our friendship with the Cutter Aviation family. They have supported this event at other fixed base operators (FBOs) and they know how big this is. As well, their new Georgetown FBO was the best fit for our needs.”
More than 500 pilots from the United States, Canada, and Mexico, their companions and spouses, as well as dozens of vendors and partners attended the three-day
event in Austin and helped raise more than $950,000 for charity. The CJPA was pleased with the benefits Georgetown offered in terms of traffic flow, logistics, and ground transportation. Trent adds that the association always prefers to use a single airport for the sake of efficiency, and the resources available at the new Cutter FBO made it ideal.
Cutter is a family-owned business and the Georgetown location, open since April 2022, is its 12th FBO. In addition to its fleet and services helping elevate the municipal airport to an executive-level airport, Cutter has grown and expanded the quality and standards of service.
Owners and travelers alike say the recent additions and changes reflect another evolution in the city’s growing visibility and reputation in the aviation community.
Throughout the three-day convention, more than $1 billion in aircraft was parked and serviced on the tarmac, representing unknown billions in net worth, and contributing to what has become a $60 million economic development resource for the city of Georgetown.
FBO director Will Cutter says the event was historic for Georgetown. “It was the most planes ever, the most fuel pumped, and we got positive feedback from every pilot. I’ve found, since we opened, that every large local business either hangars their plane here or flies in to do business.”
Rancher, Citation owner, and pilot Jim Schwertner hangars his plane in Georgetown. As a frequent business and recreation flier, he comments, “This airport is the most user-friendly and its growth says, ‘You can bring your business here because we have everything: fuel, charter and training services, and maintenance services.’ Georgetown also has significant traffic flow benefits. Here, pilots do not have to deal with delays getting in and out as is the case at most other general aviation airports, and they love that.”
Georgetown Executive Airport is home to many on-airport businesses that offer services such as FBO amenities, flight instruction, avionics, and aircraft maintenance. The most frequent include flight training, recreational flying, medical transport and evacuation, as well as ranch, powerline, and pipeline patrols.
Georgetown Mayor Josh Schroeder explains, “Our airport, by itself, is a great revenue generator via lease payments, fuel sales, and charters. But what really makes the difference is the byproduct of attracting the people who use the airport to do business in and around Georgetown.”
Mayor Schroeder points to companies like Titan Development, which is building on several properties locally. The airport enables their executives
to fly in, drive just a few minutes to the work sites, and head back to headquarters quickly. “It creates a domino effect,” the mayor adds. “Titan uses our airport to market their developments to companies like battery producer CelLink. They, in turn can market their plant’s proximity to our airport to customers who need their batteries, like Mercedes and BMW who also appreciate being able to fly in, inspect the factory, and fly out with ease.”
The mayor reasons that executives typically function on the principle that time is money and none want to have to drive two hours after they land their jet. “Georgetown has everything company executives need without the hassle.” Jim agrees, “Georgetown Executive has all the resources of a big airport but is run like a small town airport. If you have a problem, the airport manager is right over there, and you can go talk to him.”
Mayor Schroeder adds, “Although Cutter Aviation has taken us to a new level, we must give credit and gratitude to the many companies and FBOs that have made the airport what it is and have built this legacy over decades.”
Today, the nation and the world recognize Texas' Lone Star State flag but most Texans know there is much more to Texas vexillology. Our modern history began back in the 16th century, is entwined with that of five nations, and includes a period of sovereignty during which Texas governed itself.
In the early 1500s, Spanish Conquistadors began exploring this lush region as they moved northward from their South American colonies. At the time, Spain was a collection of kingdoms rather than a country, and Texas was ruled by the Crown of Castile for more than 150 years.
In the 1680s, after claiming Louisiana, French explorers continued moving west from the Mississippi River and set about settling this large and strategic land mass for France. Recognizing its commercial potential, Robert de La Salle founded Fort St. Louis,
by Ann Marie Kennona French colony along the Gulf coast, and hoped to profit from food crops and cotton. Unfortunately for France, Native Americans defended their own rights to be there and killed the French colonists. After the failure of Fort St. Louis and due to continued pressure from Spaniards to keep Texas for themselves, the French colony was abandoned in 1690.
The Spanish never actually left and between 1690 and 1821, Spain built many settlements and forts across the southwest territories to accommodate Spanish settlers, missionaries, and soldiers. Spanish influence remains today in much of the culture and city names across Texas, most notably, San Antonio.
Like America against Mother England, Mexico won its own war of independence with Spain in 1821 and made Texas part of its new nation. Mexico's leaders quickly began encouraging settlers from the United States to immigrate and by 1834, Anglo settlers outnumbered Mexicans by nearly 5 to 1. However,
IT IS ACTUALLY A MYTH (SORRY!) THAT TEXAS IS THE ONLY STATE ALLOWED TO FLY ITS FLAG AT THE SAME HEIGHT AS THE U.S. FLAG.
"ALL STATE FLAGS CAN BE FLOWN AT THE SAME HEIGHT AS THE US FLAG, AND ARE ROUTINELY FLOWN THAT WAY.
~ PETER ANSOFF, PRESIDENT, NORTH AMERICAN VEXILLOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION
U.S. FLAG CODE STATES: NO ... FLAG OR PENNANT MAY BE PLACED ABOVE THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OR TO THE UNITED STATES FLAG’S RIGHT. TEXAS CODE ALSO INDICATES THAT IF THE STATE AND U.S. FLAG ARE DISPLAYED ON THE SAME FLAGPOLE, “THE UNITED STATES FLAG SHOULD BE ABOVE THE STATE FLAG."
the Texians were never happy with the dictatorship of President Santa Anna and they banded together to fight their own revolution in 1836.
Motivated by losses at the Alamo and Goliad, Texas won its independence in 1836. Mexico refused to accept it but the Republic of Texas nonetheless convened its first Congress in 1836 under self-rule. Having endured nearly a decade of political turmoil, continuing conflict with Mexico and First Nations, a failing economy, and government debt, Texas began discussions with the United States to be admitted into the Union. While it existed 1836 to 1845 the Republic had two national flags. The second was the Lone Star flag, first flown December 29, 1845, when Texas joined the United States. The Lone Star flag is still recognized today as the state flag of Texas.
Texas was admitted to the Union and became the 28th state in 1845. The federal government assumed the Republic's debt and in return, Texas lands were annexed as were other territories and claims in Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Wyoming (map).
After 16 years in the Union, Texas seceded with other slave holding states and more than 70,000 Texans served in the Confederate army. Texans are known to have fought in every theater and almost every battle of the war. Texas surrendered June 2, 1865 following General Lee's surrender in Virginia and on June 19 (Juneteenth), federal forces arrived in Galveston to enforce United States law and begin the process of readmitting Texas into the Union.
Six Flags was the brainchild of Texas oil man Angus Wynne, Jr. He opened his premier park in 1961 and imagined a franchise that would be bigger than Disney World. He achieved his goal by building parks close to where people lived to make it easier and more affordable for families to enjoy them. His Texas park was named for the flag display and his namesake vision has grown to 27 parks in three countries.
Georgetown is wonderfully situated to provide us access to a cornucopia of family-friendly activities in every season. Many of us are looking for fun spring activities and looking ahead to summer camps and vacation plans. Following is a short list of some of the area's most popular destinations and a few hidden gems that are close by or just a short drive away.
Thinkery is an interactive indoor/outdoor space where children of all ages can learn through play. Designed specifically for children from infancy through 11 years old, Thinkery uses hands-on, interactive STEAM exhibits and programs to encourage physical, emotional, and cognitive growth.
Outside, children can play in flowing water or build strength on the three-story climbing apparatus. Inside, they can paint on glass or draw with light, watch electricity work, or share engineer duties on a model train.
1830 Simond Ave Austin • Admission required • Open every day
Topsey is a natural, free-range safari and petting zoo on 350 acres in the Hill Country. Guests can see a great variety of exotic domestic and wild animals from around the world, some of which are endangered and even extinct in the wild. Located about an hour from Georgetown, visitors can feed animals all day long for $1 per bag. Everything is well-maintained, well-marked, very clean. There is also an air-conditioned gift shop with games, toys, snacks and drinks, and apparel; some purchases help support conservation efforts outside the ranch.
945 CR 118, Copperas Cove • All-day admission • Open every day
This park was designed to enable and entertain kids while they develop new skills. While specially designed to accommodate neuroatypical and special needs children, Play for All is a safe and exciting place for all. There are dozens of apparatus and theme sections to stimulate creativity and help develop gross and fine motor skills, physical strength, and social interaction.
151 N A.W. Grimes Blvd, Round Rock • FREE Open every day 6am-midnight
Cordovan is right on the Square and has classes year round for painters and sculptors. In addition to their morning, afternoon, or all-day classes, registration is open now for Easter paint and pottery events. Plus, their summer camps have morning, afternoon, or all-day options for kids to paint anything from Pixar to Pikachu and all the dragons and woodsy animals in between.
816 S Main St., Georgetown • Fees required Open every day
The Austin Steam Train Association combines nostalgic style with modern comfort. Genuine locomotives depart from Cedar Park and Bertram depots nearly every weekend, and they have nearly 100 special and annual events for all ages. Train cars are typical of those used in the 1920s to 1940s, they are air-conditioned, and include a concession car with refreshments and souvenirs. Local rail aficionados have recreated a historically authentic passenger experience for families and train-lovers alike who wish to enjoy seasonal or scenic weekend excursions.
401 E Whitestone Blvd. #C-100, Cedar Park • Tickets required
iFly invented a recirculating wind tunnel that allows guests to experience flight in a safe and controlled environment.
Certified and trained instructors allow people of all ages (40" tall and under 300 lbs) to enjoy 60-second flight sessions. They also do birthday parties and special events.
13265 N US 183 • Fees required, packages available
The Jungle Movement Academy specializes in movement arts like parkour, ninja warrior, aerials, trampoline, rock climbing, and martial arts. Kids will never sleep better after playing games, running obstacle courses, swinging on ropes and rings, jumping on trampolines, doing flips into the foam pit, climbing the rock walls and more. The academy has one day, half- and full-day camps for summer vacation, plus after-school programs all year.
2701 Gattis School Rd, Round Rock • Fees required Open every day
This indoor water park is designed for kids age 1-10 but has plenty of room for parents to join in the play. A 10,000-square-foot building houses an interactive water play structure with slides and a large dump bucket. Ideal for young children to enjoy as there are no water depths outside of the slideouts.
1801 Clover Lane, Cedar Park
Admission required >1 year old • Open Wed-Sun
Blue Hills Ranch in Texas is a perfect destination for families who love the outdoors. The resort is rife with scenic beauty and a tranquil atmosphere—and who doesn't want to have lunch with a giraffe or swim with an otter? The ranch offers private, luxury safaris on which groups will be up close with kangaroos, mini donkeys, zebras, camels, and free roaming cows, deer, and emu. Their rustic cabins provide a close-to-home glamping experience, with stunning sunsets, but with A/C and wi-fi! Kids can enjoy the wildlife and scenic vistas while engaging in a range of activities. They can have a chance to learn about animals, from the horses at the stables to the fish in the pond. An excellent destination for families seeking a break from suburban life but want to stay close to home. Even if you don't decide to go today, call the number just to hear the voice mail—it's priceless.
THERE'S NO MISTAKING THE NAME OF THIS NEW FOOD TREND. MUCH EASIER TO REMEMBER—AND PRONOUNCE—THAN CHARCUTERIE*, THE LATEST IN HOSTESS AND FAMILY APPETIZERS ARE BUTTER BOARDS.
Next time you’re wondering which appetizer or snack to make for a dinner party, barbecue, or even a child's birthday, you'll be happy you've discovered this low-effort, economical, delicious appetizer that only requires butter, toppings, and bread. Whether savory or sweet, butter boards are helping hostesses and busy families everywhere serve up beautiful and flavorful spreads in easy and unexpected ways.
Since going viral just before the holiday season, butter boards are already making the transition to spring entertaining and inspiring people to flex their culinary creativity with seasonal aesthetics and flavors. Of course, while butter is a great complement to nearly any finger food, the options are endless and the only limits are your imagination and your personal palate.
Spreads may be sweet or savory so, depending on the occasion, you may want to start with unsalted butter and use sea salt or a variety of spices to make a custom flavor, or sweeten with fruit or honey for a lighter flourish.
For a savory experience, consider adding bits of vegetable, nuts, olives, or cheese. Add some heat with slices of pepper, red spice, or curry. For sweet toppings, fresh or dried fruit will pair nicely or spoon in some jam, citrus, coconut flakes, or chocolate.
Experts recommend serving with a hard bread that is easy to swipe without breaking, but any butter delivery vehicle will do including pita chips, naan dippers, crackers, pretzels, and chips.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• pinch of salt
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 Tbsp. heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• mini chocolate chips for topping
• sprinkles for topping
Beat softened butter on high speed 2 minutes until pale and fluffy. Add salt.
Add powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Add 1Tbsp. heavy cream, then gradually add more until the mixture has a spreadable consistency. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread frosting across the board or platter.
Dust with mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, coconut, or fruit pieces. Serve with dippers (animal crackers, vanilla wafers, graham crackers).
• butter
• chives, rosemary, or basil
• Chile-infused honey
• black pepper
• fresh baguette, sliced
Spread a thick layer of butter across the board or platter.
Top with fresh herbs, hot honey, and black pepper.
Serve with baguette slices.
• 8 oz unsalted butter softened
• ½ cup fresh basil plus extra for topping
• ½ cup dill plus extra for topping
• ½ lemon zested
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
• 4-6 slices bread for serving
Add softened butter to a food processor along with the herbs. Blend until smooth.
Remove and spread on a board or plate. Top with lemon zest, flaky sea salt, and extra fresh herbs.
Serve with a butter knife and bread or add fresh radishes.
*While"sharkcoochie"isfuntosay,inEnglishitis shar-KOO-duh-ree,andifyouwanttotryFrench, shar-kyut-REE.
Start with softened butter not straight from the fridge or melted. To soften to optimum consistency it is important not to use direct heat or a microwave—these will affect the texture after cooling. Try one of these techniques:
Cut sticks into cubes, or scoop from a tub in small portions. Greater surface area allows each measure to come to room temperature. To speed the process, place butter portions into a bowl or large mug and cover with another steaming bowl.
Pound butter with a spoon or tenderizing implement.
Leave butter out at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
Once softened, use a small, smooth knife or spoon to spread butter as thinly as possible onto the serving surface; e.g., cutting board or decorative tray. Create spaces with greater thickness to swirl the butter into peaks and pools, which will hold spices or toppings added later.
Sprinkle toppings evenly, keeping in mind that this is a spread (not a dip) and the butter is still the focus. Butter will complement a variety of toppings but it is best not to overload the board. This will keep the focus on the richness of the butter and make it easier to transfer the board from kitchen to party or between guests without spillage.
Regular readers of the Poppy page know of my affection for "The Andy Griffith Show" and I'd like to add I am no longer surprised that I am You-don't-know-whoAunt-Bee-is? old. However, I was not prepared to find out that I'm now You-don't-know-who-Eddie-Murphy-is? old. True story.
Standing near a middle school student who used a punch line from Eddie Murphy Raw that had apparently been repurposed on TikTok I had to explain to the group who said it first and when. They had no idea he was famous as a standup comedian before he was "that guy in The Nutty Professor." Of course we all thought Raw was the height of cultural humor at the time, but thus endeth the lesson because there was no way in the world I was going to explain to a Gen-Z or an Alpha what Eddie was talking about when he said it in 1987. He'd have been in Facebook jail for eternity, or at least a neck brace if he did that show today.
Similary, I had an I-was-today-years-old moment recently when I heard a young person start a sentence with "In the late 1900s..." I'll wait while you process that too. I think the rest of the sentence was something about how long it must have taken to e-mail videos to each other.
These, naturally, got me thinking about all the attendant comparisons to be made. Youth and maturity both have their advantages and drawbacks but let's just say I think Marty McFly must have lost his mind when he time traveled back to 1984 and then freaked out and spent a lot of time and energy to get back to 2023. While I don't miss the worrying-about-nuclear-war-with-the-Russians 80s, I can't say I'm enjoying the worrying-about-nuclear-warwith-the-Russians in 2023 either. Still, who needs global peace when you can dance like a "Thriller" zombie and wear shoulder pads that make you you look like a fashionable linebacker?
Plus, I would definitely stick around long enough in the 80s to invest a few bucks in Apple, and pre-plan exactly when to move my stock options from Blockbuster to RedBox to Netflix. I would also be at the airport resume in hand when Elon Musk immigrated.
This millennium does have its perks but we can, perhaps, all agree that adulting in any decade is not as much fun. I love having 10,000 songs on my phone rather than 10 songs on a CD but I still spend most of my time listening to podcasts about finance and Bible history. Those are great, but probably don't qualify as "fun". I can order shoes from the other side of the world and they show up at my front door in 48 hours but it's probably been 45 years since anyone got excited for me and said, "Wow, I bet you can run really fast in those!"
I remember playing video games in mall arcades, enjoying my friends and eating junk food. Today, I'd be hunkered in my bonus room, playing alone, talking to strangers in the game on a headset. And yet, the down side was having to continue shoving quarters into the machine because Pac-Man gave us one extra life at 10,000 points and then never again for infinity. There were no 'health' items to eat to make the game last longer. Score one for 2023 I guess.
One thing I'm happy about in my 50s is that my generation adapted to the Information Age and enjoyed the new conveniences as we aged. We are tech-savvy without being tech dependent, which is a great thing. What this means is that I don't spend my time taking selfies with my new shoes which don't make me run faster for likes. However, I do spend a lot of time Googling whether the new pain in my chest is a torn muscle, allergies, heartburn, or if my heart is going to explode before lunch. Okay, that's a weird trade-off, but I am none the less really good at it.
So, to all the young people out there dreaming of the day you can pay your own rent, complain about taxes, and buy your own ticket to anywhere just remember, adulting is a rollercoaster of joys and pains. But hey, you get to eat ice cream for breakfast, literally, whenever you want.
Better yet, even the inimitable Sheriff Taylor himself couldn't make you eat another vegetable if you don't want to. Totally worth it.
When it comes to luxury travel, Cutter Aviation’s concierge private plane service takes the experience to new heights. With a dedicated team of experts ready to cater to your every need, from customized—and even branded—in-flight meals to arranging ground transportation, you'll feel like a VIP from takeoff to touchdown. With so many mega-sites under construction and in the planning phases in Williamson County, Georgetown has become the best fit for corporate executives to manage their business travel in the area. In close proximity to I-35, but without all the traffic of Austin International, CEOs are able to check on construction or have high level meetings without sacrificing commute time to and from their final destination. Just one example: the CEO of Costco only had to drive a few blocks to check the progress of the company’s newest store.
Among the many construction projects that are making Paradigm Construc tion the embodiment of its name is the ICON 3D headquarters, and ICON is putting Wolf Ranch on the map with the world’s first 3D home community. For tunately for ICON and Georgetown, there is a growing market for 3D printed homes, as this technology has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry by making construction faster, cheaper, and more sustainable. In addition, 3D printed homes can be designed with precision and accuracy, allowing for more customization and creativity in the building process. This technology also enables the use of sustainable materials, such as recycled plastics, to create environmentally friendly homes. Some companies have already started to explore the potential of 3D printed homes, and there is a growing number of projects underway around the world. While the market for 3-D printed homes is still in its early stages, it has the potential to transform the way we think about construction and housing in the years to come.
You’ve painted or textured your accent wall but what about an accent ceiling? Don’t you love walking into an old building and marveling at a pressed copper ceiling? Statement ceilings, whether through bold paint colors, wallpaper, or intricate molding, are becoming increasingly popular as a way to add visual interest and dimension to a room. You can also add wood beams to a ceiling to create a rustic, cozy feel. They can be painted or left natural, depending on the look and feel of the room.
The Wilco Regional Animal Shelter’s Doggy Day Out program is so much more than just going for a nice long walk. The stress of being in a shelter can have negative effects on a dog's physical and emotional well-being, which is why April Peiffer and her cadre of loving volunteers provide enrichment and socialization opportunities for the dogs in their care. For a dog, a shelter is an unfamiliar and noisy environment, and they are surrounded by other dogs that are also likely overwhelmed and anxious. Plus, the lack of exercise and mental stimulation can also contribute to stress and boredom. By giving their time and energy, field trip volunteers are making a pos itive difference in the lives of these pre-homed pups and giving their future owners a good idea of what their new pet will add to the family.
