














Dear readers… You might be wondering: What can a girl who doesn’t currently have kids or pets bring to the table for a Kids & Pets Issue?
My answer is: A lot.
I moved to Cedar Park before I even had full consciousness. And growing up in this community? You don’t need to be a parent to tiny humans or fur babies to recognize how wildly family-friendly it is.
With festivals that pop up all year round and parks that boast countless amenities, we live in the kind of area that makes it easy for all ages (and some species!) to get outside and be part of something special. I still have vivid memories of playing tug-of-war during field day in elementary school, looking for the perfect pumpkins at local churches, being too scared to sit on Santa’s lap at Lakeline Mall… You know, classic rites of passage.
What I wouldn’t give to go back in time and relive it all. Minus the moaning and groaning I probably did when told to “put on shoes, we’re leaving the house.”
And what I wouldn’t give to see my sweet dog again. Everyone with pets says theirs is the best, but I can confidently say they’re wrong, because mine was. Named after Chewbacca, he shredded every toy in record time and had an uncanny ability to guilt you into handing over cheese anytime the fridge door opened. I loved him so much that I volunteered at Texas Humane Heroes in middle school, hoping to pass on that love to pups awaiting their forever homes.
Funny enough, I was scared of a lot of animals until we got him—or at least, until after he stopped trying to attack our feet, leaving me cowering on chairs he couldn’t reach. (Still think Lakeline Mall Santa had him beat for the fear factor.) But now, anywhere there’s a petting zoo, you’ll find me borderline trying to sneak baby goats into my car.
All my rambling aside, I’m thankful I grew up here. Thankful that we have community leaders who look around, see a need, and constantly say, “Let’s make it happen for the families.”
So even if, like me, you don’t have kids or pets of your own, I hope this issue helps you see what I see: that we are so lucky to live in a place that celebrates both.
MEGAN MARSHALL, EDITOR @CEDARPARK_CITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Pam Dugdale | pam.dugdale@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Megan Marshall | megan.marshall@citylifestyle.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Myke Toman, Kelly Phillips
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Texas Children’s Hospital
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle Learn
Preserve
Decode
Nurture
1: Fannie’s Farm Friends offers horse and pony rides at Leander’s Old Town Street Festival. 2: Dr. David Weaver with vet tech Danielle and commercial, movie, and book star Porter. 3: Vet tech Mika prepares cat for X-ray at Southpaw Animal Care. 4: Veteran feline care provider Kristen Hartley pets guest at Whiskers Luxury Cat Boarding. 5: Cattery tech Mercedes Aguilar gently greets cat at five-star, feline-only facility. 6: Leander-based nonprofit Imagine A Way participates in Families in Nature program to connect with animals. 7: Whitestone Animal Hospital treatment and surgery technician Alyssa holds newborn puppies with Dr. Wendy Walden.
Planning your dream wedding just got a little sweeter. For this month only, couples who book their wedding cake with us will receive a complimentary anniversary cake — a perfect way to celebrate your first year of marriage with a taste of your special day. Our expert bakers craft each wedding cake with love, care, and the finest ingredients to ensure your celebration is as memorable as it is delicious. From elegant designs to personalized flavors, we’re here to bring your vision to life.
Don’t miss this limited-time offer — because every love story deserves a sweet beginning and an even sweeter anniversary.
*Promo offer Ends on July 31, 2025.
Join us for Happy Hour with half-price cocktails and 50 bottles of wine at 50% off from 4:30-6pm and live entertainment nightly, celebrate your special occasion in style with our Private and Group dining spaces, and dine on the delectable wonders of everything under the sea including our iconic Stone Crab claws. Our team will ensure your culinary adventure is unforgettable.
Truluck’s
Energy loss after 50 is due to 3 things: hormone loss, muscle loss and stem cell loss (those master cells are declining!). Yep, our “power grid” literally goes down. Reboot your cellular energy at youthingnotaging.com This summer, treat your favorite little people to something truly special. At DuValls Classic Children’s Boutique, we’ve curated a fresh collection of adorable outfits, breezy dresses, and play-ready essentials that are as sweet as summer itself.
Whether you’re a mom picking out the perfect park-day outfit or a grandparent looking to surprise them with something darling, we’ve got styles that delight-and quality that lasts through every adventure.
When Rithul Bhat noticed the steep learning curve with programming languages, he realized the problem wasn’t the languages themselves—it was the lack of clear, student-friendly resources. So, he wrote them himself! A High Schooler’s Guide to Java was published in March 2024, followed by A High Schooler’s Guide to Web Development this past April. Rithul hopes his work will inspire and support fellow teens on their computer science journeys. Order your copies now! amazon.com
This summer, Cedar Park welcomed Dr. Dina Miller’s dream of developing a myopia management center, the Myopia Center of Texas. Focused on slowing nearsightedness in kids and teens, they offer advanced testing to protect long-term vision and reduce the risk of serious eye disease. Proven treatments include custom-fit Ortho-K lenses, MiSight 1-day soft contact lenses, and low-dose atropine eye drops. They are proudly partnered with optometrists throughout the area to complement primary eye care. myopiacenteroftx.com
Founded by Sarah Eis, a child development expert and behavior analyst for over 18 years, Exceptional Child 360 is now open. This business was designed to help parents navigate the complexities of disability services across clinical, school, home, and community settings. Exceptional Child 360’s neuro-affirming, holistic approach fosters developmental growth through parent coaching, behavior support, and special education advocacy. By turning confusion into clarity and confidence, the team creates actionable plans that empower families. exceptionalchild360.com
Upon entering you’ll find a bright and welcoming atmosphere with newly painted interiors that create an inviting backdrop for your personal touches. This home is in a great location near the Round Rock Outlet mall and Old Settlers Park. Listed at $325,000 this 4 bedroom and 2 bathroom does not disappoint with tons of updates and an open floor plan.
Call, text, or email me for a private showing or to see how much I could sell your home for.
954.649.8715 | AMYTHEAGENT.COM AMY@AMYTHEAGENT.COM
1205 BMC Dr. #407 Cedar Park, TX V @amyaustinrealtor B Amy McCarthy-Realtor @REALTOR-AmyMcCarthy
Bring a little more magic into the world alongside the Austin Steam Train Association
When you take a ride with the Austin Steam Train Association, you are stepping into the past. Think cool metal walls, the rhythm of the rails, and the views and sounds shared with passengers nearly 90 years ago.
ASTA preserves the character and craftsmanship of vintage railroading while making thoughtful updates for modern comfort. Treating the train like a moving museum artifact, the team honors history at every turn. This careful balance has even recently earned them the Best of Austin 2025 Kids & Family Wild Card award.
“Each car has its own story, its own character. Whether you’re relaxing in a classic coach seat or stretching out in one of our lounge cars, you’re surrounded by pieces of living history,” says Development Manager Renee Maverick. “Our different classes of passenger cars are designed to offer something for everyone, from casual family outings to elegant adult experiences, and even special occasions like birthdays or bachelorettes.”
In lounge cars, like the Rippling Stream and Maurice Beckham, you’ll find plush seating, extra legroom, and refined style. Coach cars offer vintage charm for families and budget-savvy travelers. No matter where you sit, your journey is unforgettable.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY MYKE TOMAN
It’s all thanks to a tight-knit team of passionate volunteers—the driving force of the nonprofit. Expertly trained and committed to safety, they do everything from serving guests on board to operating the train.
“We’re primarily volunteer-run, and they show up in every sense of the word, with skill, dedication, and a whole lot of heart,” says Maverick. “They’re also the ones who keep the train running—literally. Our volunteers work weekly in the rail yard, maintaining the train and leading restoration efforts on major projects like ASTA’s diesel locomotive 442 and Southern Pacific steam locomotive 786.”
There are plenty of ways to have fun with loved ones alongside ASTA, like the Princess Flyer, the Hero Train, and the Wedding Oak Wine Train.
But the North Pole Flyer is an especially iconic tradition that makes the holidays come alive. There’s nothing quite like meeting Santa while sipping hot cocoa on a real vintage train! This
year, each car will have a dazzling Christmas theme designed to keep kids wide-eyed with wonder. The North Pole Flyer offers private compartments or full car reservations so your whole family can lean into the spirit of the season.
Every ticket purchased directly funds ASTA’s mission, helping preserve more pieces of railroad history and launch new rides like the Lotería Train and the Trivia Train. The goal is to bring generations together, which is something they achieve day in and day out.
“When you see a grandparent sharing stories with their grandchild while riding through the Hill Country, or a parent watching their child light up as the train whistle blows, you realize this is so much more than just a train
ride,” says Maverick. “Every trip is a shared experience, a moment away from screens and distractions, where people of all ages can slow down and simply enjoy being together.”
ASTA extends its love for the community through the Wheels of Wonder program, partnering with organizations like Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas, Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas. Through the Service Family Flyer Program, they also partner with the Veteran Tickets Foundation to serve military families.
“This is a true grassroots effort powered by people who care,” says Maverick. “It’s a beautiful thing to see so many folks come together to keep history alive and create shared joy.”
Get tickets to ride with your family and friends at: austinsteamtrain.org
EMPOWER AND UNLEASH YOUR DOG’S POTENTIAL WITH SEE SPOT BEHAVE
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY PHILLIPS
With force-free, fear-free dog training rooted in modern behavioral science, See Spot Behave gives dogs a safe space to be curious, explore, and make mistakes. Their behavior consultants bridge the gap between overwhelmed owners and veterinarians, creating clear, compassionate plans forward.
Owner Diane Smith was inspired to become a trainer because of her first dog and mayhem specialist, Harley—a Husky/Chow mix who once renovated the kitchen by tearing off countertop tiles. Certified Canine Behavior Consultant Devi Puckett found her calling thanks to Zoe, an emaciated but scrappy Carolina dog dumped on the road who changed her life forever.
Today, through See Spot Behave, they help clients realize their dogs aren’t being bad—they’re just communicating their struggle, and it’s our job to listen.
“I know I’m in the right place when I pull up and hear a dog losing their mind behind the front door. Then it opens, and the owner is grabbing their dog’s collar, breathlessly apologizing, while their dog is barking, jumping, and spinning. I just smile and say, ‘Perfect. This is where we begin,’” says Smith. “If their dog snatches a sandwich off the counter mid-session, we’re not calling it a failure—we’re calling it a teachable moment. And maybe a funny story.”
“You don’t have to have the answers. You don’t have to justify why things feel so hard,” says Puckett. “That’s why I’m here. I want to hear your story, the good and the hard, what keeps you up at night, and what you wish your dog could understand. I’m not here to judge you—I’m here to help untangle the chaos and make it make sense.”
They’ve worked with anxious pups afraid to be alone, watchdogs convinced the mail carrier is a menace, and trash can connoisseurs with a flair for interior design. In any case, See Spot Behave shows owners that they’re being brave by embracing the magic of going slow rather than rushing change.
“We turn ‘What do I do with this dog?’ into ‘Look what we did today.’”
“Your dog isn’t giving you a hard time—they’re having a hard time,” says Puckett. “That shift from blame to empathy changes how you show up for your dog. And it changes how your dog responds, too.”
“Dogs are dogs,” says Smith. “Let’s stop expecting them to act like little people, and start meeting them where they are, with humor, snacks, and maybe a few less throw pillows.”
Get started at: seespotbehave.com
Austin baby undergoes two major heart surgeries within 5 days of birth
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
BY TEXAS CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
When Lindsey Mansuri had a routine anatomy scan around the 23rd week of her pregnancy, she never imagined the moment would alter her world. Her unborn daughter, Hadley, had a life-threatening, rare heart defect—dextro-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA)—where the heart’s major vessels are not in the correct position, restricting the body from receiving life-giving oxygen.
Referred to pediatric cardiologist Dr. Anitha Jayakumar at Texas Children’s North Austin, Lindsey and her husband Adam found themselves surrounded by a team of experts determined to save Hadley’s life. They met Dr. Javier Brenes, the cardiac surgeon who would operate on their newborn’s heart, and they walked the hospital halls where their baby would fight for survival.
On September 23, 2024, Hadley was born—and within three hours, she was in surgery. The first procedure, a septostomy, gave her heart a temporary fix. But four days later, she faced the ultimate test: a 10-hour open-heart surgery called an arterial switch operation.
Lindsey and Adam waited, and when Dr. Brenes emerged, his face said it all. “Even after the long surgery,” Lindsey recalled, “he looked so happy. He smiled the whole time he talked with us.”
Only 16 days later, against all odds, Hadley went home. Today, she’s thriving: laughing, playing, hitting milestones, and even splashing through infant swim lessons this summer.
Hadley’s journey is one of grit, grace, and the miracles of modern medicine. For Lindsey and Adam, every heartbeat is a reminder of the team that gave their daughter a future—and the fierce love that carried them all through.
texaschildrens.org
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LEANDER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Tracks were laid, land was sold, and Leander was born in 1882. Named after Leander “Catfish” Brown—a railroad official who helped complete the line—the town has always been rooted in movement and momentum.
Fast forward to today, and Leander still honors that legacy, with a family-friendly twist. Their Trail of Trains invites you to explore the city through a photo scavenger hunt featuring 12 stops.
“We were looking for a creative, engaging way to celebrate that heritage while also supporting local artists and giving businesses a unique platform to connect with the community,” says Leander Chamber President Bridget Brandt. “When we were brainstorming ideas for our Leadership Leander class project, we wanted something that would be both visually impactful and meaningful—and trains were a perfect fit.”
Each train is a story. Businesses collaborate with artists to tell those stories, sharing their mission, values, and custom imagery to transform ideas into bold, personal works of art.
“One of the most touching moments was when a business owner teared up seeing their finished train because it so perfectly captured their legacy,” says Brandt. “Another time, a child came running into our office, sharing how excited he was to have completed the entire trail. He earned a train whistle and was blowing on it with all his heart.”
The community continues to rally around this project, with plenty of buzz on social media and visitors mapping out their own train tours.
“It’s a celebration of who we are and where we’ve come from, and it’s creating memories and conversations that will last for years,” says Brandt. “That kind of impact is exactly why we do what we do.”
Head to visitleandertx.com to learn more and swing by the Leander Visitors Center at 100 N Brushy St to claim your prize.
Experience how the Leander Trail of Trains is part of the city’s name, history, and community identity
WWW.SERENITEACUP.COM
| info@sereniteacup.com 600 S. Bell Blvd., Ste. 17, Cedar Park, TX
ENHANCE YOUR CHILD’S EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT WITH LIFELONG SKILLS TAUGHT AT FIRST FOUNDATIONS
With 90% of cognitive development happening by age six, early years are critical. That’s why at First Foundations, students are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and use their Godgiven gifts.
Each day is filled with open-ended play and interactive lessons that bring reading, writing, science, art, and storytelling to life. Teachers create an environment that intentionally adds to students’ educational toolboxes.
“Bible-based lessons and character-building activities nurture spiritual growth, while group activities foster teamwork and social skills,” says Founder and Director Steffani Wilkins. “These experiences are designed to support academic success while cultivating joyful, well-rounded learners grounded in truth and love.”
First Foundations teachers form lasting bonds with students, guiding them through grade levels. Families drive from Georgetown and Liberty Hill—and entrust all of their kids here— because they see the difference a strong foundation makes.
One unique offering is the Bridge Class, which gives the “Gift of Time”—an extra year to grow without the pressure to rush. This
intentional pause helps students build solid habits and empower their voices.
“We are thrilled to enroll our daughter in the Bridge class this year,” says parent Devan Bice. “Since she just turned five in June, she would have been one of the youngest in her class had we moved forward with kindergarten. I prefer setting her up for success by giving her another year of education so she can gain confidence in her skills and grow as a leader, both academically and socially.”
Every child learns differently, but whether they’re in the Preschool, Bridge, or Primary Years program, First Foundations equips them to succeed at each stage.
“We treasure the opportunity to walk alongside our students throughout their educational journey, continuing to pour into their lives and nurture the relationships we’ve built,” says Wilkins. “In doing so, they come to know they are deeply valued, supported, and cherished in our community.”
Discover how First Foundations is building the next generation at: firstfoundations.com
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELLY PHILLIPS
Trust the team at Petbar Cedar Park and Lakeline to treat your dogs like family with convenient, professional grooming services
You might know Petbar as the go-to spot for a doggy spa day. Whether you’ve got a tiny chihuahua or a towering Great Dane, every pup gets pampered. With cost-effective monthly memberships that include washing, teeth brushing, nail clipping, and ear cleaning, Petbar makes it easy (and affordable) to keep your dog clean, healthy, and happy.
When Garrett and Aisling Dewan started looking into franchise opportunities, it was Texas-based Petbar that stood out. The idea of being surrounded by animal people clicked with them instantly, as a
husband-wife duo who currently live with three dogs and have two daughters studying veterinary science in college. Plus, pets have always been part of Garrett’s story.
“There’s never been a time in my life that I didn’t have a dog. Since I can remember, since I was small , small, my folks were into dogs, so we always grew up with them,” says Garrett. “When I moved to Ireland and met up with Aisling, they were also dog people. So, from early childhood to adult life and married life, there has never not been a dog in the house.”
Through Petbar, the Dewans have connected with a loyal community, building meaningful relationships that go far beyond a simple grooming appointment. As a 100% customer-service business, they and their team prioritize a friendly, calm environment for both pets and their owners.
Garrett and Aisling had launched Petbar Cedar Park on Whitestone from the ground up. Then, after seeing how well their
neighbors responded, they took a leap and purchased the struggling Lakeline location to turn things around. Today, they proudly own and operate both boutiques, bringing the same standard of care, professionalism, and warmth to every furry friend that walks through their doors.
“I’ve always been a corporate person, had corporate jobs all my life. So, it’s been a huge learning curve for both of us to figure out how to make a business run on our own. We don’t have all of these departments behind us that are helping us make this happen,” says Garrett. “It’s been rewarding that we’ve managed to successfully do it.”
Book your pup’s appointment any day of the week at: petbarinc.com/locations/austin-cedar-park
PRESCHOOL
These formative years are crucial for cognitive and social development, fostering growth, curiosity, and a love for learning.
This is a “gift of time,” allowing children to increase their knowledge while receiving personalized, attentive support from our dedicated educators.
KINDERGARTEN - 2ND GRADE
Building on an established foundation as children transition from mastering letters to words and numbers to equations.
The Liberty Hill Youth League is all about building character through baseball and softball, giving kids ages four to 14 an opportunity to grow, learn, and play with heart.
Jesse Westphal, owner of Texas Window Store, got involved with LHYL in spring 2023. What started as a desire to be there for his son during his rookie season, Westphal stepped up as head coach to fill a gap in leadership.
“As the season went on, I realized how much I enjoyed the energy and camaraderie of the kids, and I saw coaching as a chance to not only support my son, but also help shape a positive environment for the whole team,” says Westphal.
Youth sports are a crash course in teamwork, discipline, and confidence. Through coaching, Westphal has found that creating a safe, structured space for kids to stay active and build friendships truly is an investment in our future. He’s had a front-row seat to how sports shape young athletes into well-rounded people beyond the game.
That’s why this past spring, he continued offering support as an assistant coach and sponsor, while proudly backing the Liberty Hill All Stars 8U. Through Texas Window Store, he helps cover the cost of uniforms, equipment, and team essentials. It’s about more than business; it’s a meaningful way to show kids their community is behind them.
“As a parent, it’s made me more patient and proud,” says Westphal. “As a business owner, it’s reinforced how vital community support is—how much more impactful it is when we’re not just selling a product, but showing up for people. And as a community member, it’s deepened my appreciation for the values Liberty Hill stands for—family, hard work, and looking out for one another.”
Learn about sponsoring the Liberty Hill Youth League at: lhyl.org
Share in community pride with Texas Window Store’s commitment to youth sports
ARTICLE BY MEGAN MARSHALL PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LHYL & ATX SPORTS PHOTOS
When he’s not in the dugout, you’ll find Jesse Westphal upgrading homes through family-owned Texas Window Store. Whether you’re remodeling or replacing, they make the process simple and pressure-free. Get your evaluation at: texaswindowstore.com
AUGUST 1ST & 2ND
2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
There is no better way to end the summer than by bringing the beach right here to Cedar Park. In week 7 of the 2025 AVP League, beach volleyball returns with some of the most elite pro players in the country. One court, two days of action. Get tickets now for your friends and family! hebcenter.com
AUGUST 2ND - 23RD (SATURDAYS & TUESDAYS)
2001 Kalahari Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
Plan your summer getaway right around the corner in Round Rock. After checking out the rides and slides, arcade, escape rooms, and other fun experiences offered at Kalahari Resorts, swing by the Baobab Patio for a movie under the stars! Enjoy a big screen evening complete with pre-show activities the whole family will love. Must be a resort guest. kalahariresorts.com
AUGUST 5TH & 6TH
Blues on the Green hosted by Waterloo Media
2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Each summer, Waterloo Media is known to host the longest-running free concert series in Austin. Blues on the Green has become a staple of the city, inviting music lovers out to Zilker Park to enjoy a family-friendly, pet-friendly night of tunes. Austin-based artists from a variety of genres come out to put on a memorable show. kgsr.com
AUGUST 8TH & 9TH
Cedar Park Rodeo presented by Michelob Ultra
2100 Ave of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Get ready for the family tradition of the Cedar Park Rodeo at the H-E-B Center! Featuring two evenings of professional rodeo events, you’ll watch everything from bareback riding to steer wrestling, and calf roping to saddle bronc riding. There will also be mutton busting and frisbee dogs. A portion of the proceeds benefits the Sammy Wallace Memorial Foundation. hebcenter.com
AUGUST 16TH
Shop local at Cedar Park Market Days
11066 Pecan Park Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613 | 9:00 AM
Looking for specialty food items? What about handmade crafts? Maybe you’re just hoping to enjoy fresh air and a food truck lunch. With over 70 local vendors, Cedar Park Market Days is the place to buy locally-made goods on the third Saturday of the month. This market will be running until 2 PM, so get there early! pennyvproductions.com
AUGUST 16TH
Christian Resource Center’s Rolling for Hope at
13301 N Hwy 183, Austin, TX 78750 | 11:00 AM
Roll strikes for a cause by joining Christian Resource Center for fun, fellowship, and fundraising. Whether you are a bowling pro or just in it for the laughs, Rolling for Hope will be a friendly tournament that’s perfect for team-building, community engagement, and making an impact. Funds raised will directly support CRC’s mission to restore hope and transform lives. crctwinlakes.org
Practice of Dr. Akash "Doc Ak" Pandya
Up to $750 OFF
Comprehensive Treatment & $350 Off Phase I Treatment For All Same-Day-Starts
Y o u r S p e c i a l i s t i n
C r e a t i n g B e a u t i f u l S m i l e s
U s i n g B r a c e s a n d C l e a r
A l i g n e r T h e r a p y