Mueller magazine continues highlighting the best of our community with help from our talented writers. 16
Meet Shannon McGarvey of Moonpie Media, a Muellerbased podcast production company. 20 The Sound of Community
Ivan Treviño shares a rich musical background with university students—and audiences at neighborhood concerts.
4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Celebrating Two Years!
8 WHAT’S NEW Events and Attractions 10 MEET ME AT THE MARKET Espacio Handmade
LOCAL TASTES
Banana Lunchbox Loaves 28 PERSPECTIVES Poem by Shawna Kruger 32 PHOTO OP Standing Out
Shannon McGarvey, founder and executive producer of Moonpie Media, a Mueller-based podcast production company.
As a real estate professional and proud resident of the Mueller neighborhood, I love being a part of this vibrant, close-knit community. With its mix of modern homes, green spaces, and walkable amenities, Mueller truly offers something special. Living here gives me an inside perspective on the area’s unique market and lifestyle, which I use to help clients make informed and confident decisions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about the neighborhood, I’m always happy to share my expertise and enthusiasm for this amazing place we call home.
JCELEBRATING TWO YEARS!
JUST LIKE THAT, we blinked—and here we are in August. It’s a month that often sneaks up on us. The heat still lingers (especially here in Austin), but there’s a quiet shift in the air. Vacations wind down, backpacks come out and a sense of new beginnings starts to settle in.
That’s what made August the perfect time to launch Mueller magazine two years ago. It’s hard to believe how quickly time has flown, but looking back on all we’ve accomplished together— magazine and community alike—I’m filled with gratitude. What began as a tiny seed of an idea has grown into something vibrant and meaningful. I couldn’t be prouder of the stories we’ve told, the connections we’ve made and the path ahead.
To everyone who has supported the magazine, whether through advertising, submitting ideas or photos, writing poems or simply stopping me on the street with a suggestion, thank you. Your enthusiasm and creativity are the heart of this publication.
I’m also incredibly grateful for the small but mighty team that helps bring this magazine to life each month. This year, we’ve welcomed a few new faces whose talent and energy have added so much. In this issue, I’m excited to introduce them and celebrate everyone who has contributed in some way to the magazine’s growth.
This month, we’re featuring the work of Shannon McGarvey, a gifted storyteller who founded Moonpie Media, a podcast production company based right here in Mueller. Shannon is using her platform to elevate not only her own voice but also the voices of others in the community.
We also meet Ivan Treviño, a local musician and Mueller resident. Carmen Gray shares his fascinating story and even attends one of his neighborhood courtyard concerts—an event filled with music and fun for the whole family.
Alix Newton returns with a back-to-school recipe that’s sure to be a lunchbox favorite and a nice treat for the new school year.
And over at the market, we visit with Katrina Marhefka, owner of Espacio Leather, whose beautiful handmade goods make wonderful gifts or a special treat just for you.
So, off we go into another exciting year of Mueller magazine. I’m so proud of where we’ve been and even more excited for what’s to come.
Liz Reingold Publisher
MAGAZINE
Editor & Publisher
Liz Reingold
Writers
Carmen Gray
Cristina Tangredi
Photographers
Margarita Garcia Acevedo
Marketing Coordinator
Alexandra Garcia
Social Media and Content Intern
Nicole Higgins
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Art Director
Rosemary O’Connell
Executive Editor
Richard Laliberte
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
Mueller magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Mueller, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPH BY MARGARITA GARCIA ACEVEDO
DIRECTORY OF SPONSORS
Many thanks to our committed sponsors, who make it possible for us to bring you high-quality local stories each month. Shopping and doing business close to home are excellent ways to support our community. When you visit our sponsors, please tell them Mueller magazine sent you!
Crane & Holtzman
Crane & Holtzman is a boutique, full-service accounting firm providing tax, consulting and accounting services to individuals, businesses and trusts.
512.215.0057 | www.craneholtzman.com
Dish Society
Dish Society is a Mueller neighborhood favorite for locally sourced food, everyday feel-good meals, good vibes, and great company
512.623.1498 | www.dishsociety.com @dishsociety
Honest Mary’s
Honest Mary’s fuels the Mueller community with life-giving fast food—clean, chef-crafted bowls made fresh and fast. Perfect for families, busy professionals, and active lifestyles.
512.375.3906 | www.honestmarys.com @honestmarys
Origin Hotel
Discover Origin Hotel Austin, blending Texas charm with modern comfort, stylish rooms, and all-day dining from Blue Lacy right in the heart of Mueller. 512.861.1140 | www.Originhotel.com @origin_austin
The Herb Bar
The Herb Bar, Austin’s oldest apothecary, has served the community for nearly 40 years with teas, tinctures, organic body products, and holistic workshops focused on wellness and connection. 512.444.6251 | www.theherbbar.com @theherbbar
Kuper Sotheby’s
A distinguished real estate advisor and proud Mueller resident, offering expert guidance whether you’re buying, selling, or exploring the neighborhood.
512.831.6577 | www.sotheybysrealty.com @soud_twal
St. Austin Catholic School
Since 1917, St. Austin has partnered with families to form Christ-centered, academically strong, moral community leaders through faith, service, scholarship, and a nurturing Catholic environment. 512.886.1756 | Staustinschool.org
Floyd’s 99 Barbershop
Floyd’s 99 Barbershop offers expert cuts, shaves, and color for EVERYONE—set in a fun, familyfriendly space with our iconic poster wall and lively music.
Since 2008, the Mueller Silent Market Team has specialized in Mueller and Central Austin real estate, offering expert guidance on both public and private listings.
As the state’s leading workers’ compensation provider, Texas Mutual Insurance Company is dedicated to protecting employees, supporting local communities, and fortifying the state economy. 512.224.3800 | www.texasmutual.com @texasmutual
The Salty Sow
At Salty Sow, we serve up bold, farm-sourced Texas comfort food with a Southern twist—bringing people together for unforgettable meals and good times.
512.391.2337 | www.saltysow.com @saltysow
Thinkery
Thinkery, a nonprofit children’s museum and home to Little Thinkers Preschool, sparks joyful, playbased STEAM learning so ALL children cultivate a lifelong love of learning.
Feel great, look amazing at VIO Med Spa. Our medical professionals specialize in skin rejuvenation, Botox, cosmetic injectables, skin care, weight loss and body contouring.
Join Thinkery for an unforgettable fundraising gala supporting Austin’s only children’s museum. Enjoy an evening filled with vibrant color, playful surprises and hands-on inspiration at Branch Park Pavilion. “Imagine That” is a celebration of creativity, community and the bright futures we’re building together—one young innovator at a time. Learn more at www.thinkeryaustin.org/imaginethat.
KUTX ROCK THE PARK CONCERTS
September 26
October 24
November 7
KUTX’s free family-friendly Rock the Park concerts will be back in Mueller Lake Park this fall. Stay tuned for the artist lineup in late August! Visit www.kutx.org/live-events/kutxevents/rock-the-park for updates.
CHASING INDIGO
Mueller’s newest jewelry shop, Chasing Indigo, is reopening after suffering a devasting flood during our May storm. They design modern jewelry with Texas heart—think permanent jewelry, a charm bar and bold gemstone jewelry. They create high quality, meaningful keepsake jewelry that journeys with you! Please come out and support our neighborhood treasure as the store gets back on its feet! 4524 Mattie Street #105.
SHARE YOUR IDEAS FOR A MUELLER ART FAIR!
Mueller is home to many inspiring and creative artists. What do you think about Mueller Neighborhood Association hosting a Mueller Art Fair in 2026? Take the survey at www.muellerneighborhood.org/art-fair.
LEARN MORE
The Mueller Neighborhood Association is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit building a strong, inclusive and connected community through events, activities, advocacy and outreach. To learn more about Mueller, visit www. muellerneighborhood.org.
MUELLER PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION
Live or work in Mueller and want to help make the neighborhood even better? Get involved with a Mueller Property Owners Association (POA) Committee! The Recruitment, Budget & Finance, and Modifications (reviews exterior alterations) committees are looking for volunteers. All Mueller residents and property owners, including homeowners and commercial owners (or their representatives), are eligible to join. If you’re interested, email Mueller@coherelife.com to request an application.
MUELLER NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION MEETINGS
August 16 and September 20, 9:45 a.m.
Learn what’s happening in Mueller and meet your neighbors at Mueller Neighborhood Association (MNA) monthly meetings, held at Austin Energy, 4815 Mueller Blvd. All Mueller residents are welcome!
TREASURES IN LEATHER
Espacio Handmade is a local maker of unique leather goods and other gifts.
BY CARMEN GRAY
AT THE TEXAS FARMERS’
Market at Mueller, tucked among vibrant produce stands and artisan vendors, there’s a striking stall facing Kerbey Lane Café that always draws a crowd. It’s stocked with an eye-catching array of handcrafted leather goods, from cowboy boot keychains to colorful wallets and Texas-themed trinkets. For many regular marketgoers, it’s a go-to for browsing between picking up farmfresh veggies or sipping coffee. But beyond the charming exterior lies a story of creative vision, craftsmanship and local pride, all thanks to the founder, Katrina Marhefka.
Marhefka’s journey began in 2007 when she started designing and selling jewelry. While her pieces were well received, she quickly noticed a major gap in the market: men’s accessories. “I noticed that men’s goods simply lacked the creativity of women’s gifts,” she explains. “They were basic, boring and uninspired. I wasn’t seeing any color with leather, much less pairing colors together.”
Determined to fill that gap, she leaned on her background in graphic design to bring new life into men’s leather goods. What began as a creative side hustle soon evolved into a full-fledged brand—Espacio Handmade, officially launched in 2013. Unlike the standard fare of
brown and black wallets, Marhefka’s designs stand out for their bold color combinations, functional designs and refined details. “Men want quality, but they also want something that reflects their personality. I saw that opportunity and ran with it.”
HANDMADE WITH CARE
Espacio Handmade is more than just a leather goods company—it’s a statement about craftsmanship, sustainability, and intentional living. Each product is made by hand in small batches from premium leathers sourced responsibly. One of the most compelling aspects of the business is how sustainability is woven into its very fabric.
“I use the off-cuts from larger pieces—like wallet scraps—to create the smaller items, like keychains or wine charms,” she says. “It keeps materials out of the landfill and gives even the tiniest pieces of leather new life.” This approach not only reduces waste but also allows her to offer a diverse product line that remains cohesive and purposeful.
There’s a palpable pride in her voice when she talks about the work. It’s clear that for Marhefka, Espacio Handmade isn’t about scaling quickly or chasing trends. It’s about building something with integrity—products that last, that matter and that tell a story.
Katrina Marhefka (center photo), founder of Espacio Handmade, leaned into her background in graphic design to create a diverse line of handcrafted products.
EVENTS AND MORE
In addition to her weekly presence at the Mueller market, Marhefka has also carved out a niche in the world of corporate and private events. One of the standout services Espacio Handmade offers is live, on-site monogramming. “It’s a big hit,” she shares. “Guests get to watch their initials being hand-set and pressed into leather in real time. It’s an experience—it makes the gift even more meaningful.”
These events have brought Espacio
into everything from corporate retreats to weddings, giving clients the chance to create something truly one-of-akind. Whether it’s a branded wallet in a custom color or a keychain embossed with a special message, the experience is deeply personal—and entirely unique.
Espacio Handmade’s products have a distinctive look and feel: from leather patch hats to flasks, earrings and their signature wallets, everything is stitched with care and stamped with character. One of the most popular items is the Vaquera Vertical Wallet, a compact, stylish piece that draws attention for its clean lines and clever design. Each product bears the subtle hallmarks of Marhefka’s design sensibility—bold, thoughtful and undeniably Austin.
What makes her booth so special is not just the high-quality merchandise but also the sense of discovery. “You won’t find these exclusive products at any other outdoor market in town,” Marhefka emphasizes. “The market on Sundays in Mueller is the only outdoor venue where we sell weekly.”
AN AUSTIN GEM
So, if you’re bringing out-of-town guests to explore Austin, this is a hidden gem worth pointing out—something uniquely local that showcases the city’s vibrant maker culture. Outside of the farmers’ market, Espacio Handmade makes occasional appearances at
events like Blue Genie Art Bazaar and Austin City Limits Festival (ACL). Those wanting a deeper look into the artistry behind the products can book an appointment to visit their brickand-mortar workshop in South Austin, located at 2311 Thornton Rd. The studio offers a behind-the-scenes peek at the tools, materials and meticulous process behind each item—and for serious gift shoppers, it’s a quiet place to explore the full collection away from the buzz of the market. More info on visiting and ordering custom pieces can be found at www.espaciohandmade.com/pages/ espacio-handmade-pickup-location.
In a time when mass production dominates and fast fashion floods the market, it’s refreshing to see a small business like Espacio Handmade— one that values creativity, quality and sustainability in equal measure— thrive. Marhefka’s work doesn’t just fill a gap in the market; it fills a deeper need for intentional, well-made products with heart. Next time you’re at Mueller on a Sunday, stop by the stall with the leather cowboy boots and colorful wallets. You might just walk away with more than a gift—you’ll leave with a story in your pocket.
Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a retired teacher, a published author and a freelance writer.
Cheers to Two Years!
Mueller magazine continues highlighting the best of our local community with help from our talented writers.
BY LIZ REINGOLD
TTHEY SAY TIME FLIES when you’re having fun—and that couldn’t be more true as we celebrate two years of publishing Mueller magazine. What began as a simple idea—a dream—has grown into a true passion project. It has captured the imagination and creativity of our amazing neighborhood and helped bring us closer together as a community. I couldn’t be more grateful.
To mark our two-year anniversary, I want to give a big thank-you to the small but mighty team that makes this magazine possible every month. Last year, I introduced you to writer extraordinaire Carmen Gray and our fabulous social media maven Alexandra Garcia—both of whom continue to bring their talent and heart to every issue. They’re simply the best.
This year, we welcomed two new creative powerhouses: writer Cristina Tangredi and content creator Nicole Higgins. Their fresh perspectives and creative energy have already made a big impact, and I’m so excited to have them on board.
Here’s a little more about each of them.
CRISTINA TANGREDI
Cristina is a clear, communityminded storyteller with more than a decade of experience writing for nonprofits and government departments. At Mueller magazine, she’s excited to highlight the people and places that bring this neighborhood to life.
Her niche lies in making content accessible, turning dense or technical language into something everyone can easily understand and enjoy. She loves dogs and fosters furry friends with Austin Animal Center. When she’s not writing, she and her dog Coda can often be found
exploring Austin’s trails, soaking up the Texas sunshine.
A devoted traveler, Cristina’s favorite destination so far is Cape Town, South Africa. What she enjoys most about working at Mueller magazine is meeting neighbors and helping readers feel a real connection to this close knit community.
Liz Reingold is the publisher of Mueller magazine.
NICOLE HIGGINS
Nicole Higgins has been working with Mueller magazine as a social media intern since March 2025. She is currently enrolled at Troy University Online, studying graphic design and creative writing.
Working with the magazine so far has encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone and expand on her knowledge of social media. One of her favorite parts of this position is being able to meet all our local business owners and capturing those moments for everyone to see.
Being able to use Nicole’s knowledge of social media and graphic design to show readers the growth and vitality of Mueller has truly been the highlight of her time with the magazine.
COVER TO COVER
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to Mueller magazine—whether you’ve shared stories, photos, poems or ideas, or simply taken the time to read each issue. We appreciate every one of you. Please continue to reach out at hello@muellermagazine.com. These are just some of our many covers highlighting the people, businesses, culture, environment and activities of our remarkable community. Enjoy—and here’s to many more years of creating and growing together!
The Power of Storytelling
Meet Shannon McGarvey of Moonpie Media, a Mueller-based podcast production company.
BY CRISTINA TANGREDI
AAT MUELLER MAGAZINE, we believe in the power of stories. A good story can bring people together, helping us feel seen, understood and connected with one another. In a neighborhood as vibrant and community focused as Mueller, storytelling is a meaningful way to build relationships. No one knows this better than Mueller resident Shannon McGarvey.
McGarvey is the founder and executive producer of Moonpie Media, a podcast production company based right here in Mueller. Moonpie Media is rooted in purpose and built around people, specializing in thoughtful, story-driven audio that sparks conversation, deepens understanding and drives meaningful impact. Shannon collaborates with both global brands and independent creators, helping clients bring their stories to life in the form of audio.
WHY STORIES MATTER
The stories McGarvey tells reflect the complexity and nuance of the human experience. Moonpie Media is committed to amplifying underrepresented voices and centering
people at the heart of every story.
McGarvey describes the stories as human centered, using a methodology that reflects care, research and respect. Whether it’s a narrative on grief, sustainability or true crime, McGarvey approaches every topic with the same empathy and curiosity that she brings to her daily life.
McGarvey’s approach involves extensive interviews, careful listening and thoughtful scripting. She supports every stage of the storytelling process, including research, narrative
development and drafting interview questions, always with an ear toward how the final product will connect with listeners.
She believes audio is one of the most intimate storytelling mediums; when someone speaks their truth, it creates a powerful resonance that stays with the audience long after the story ends.
The impact of Moonpie Media speaks for itself. McGarvey’s work includes:
• Sweets Unwrapped” – A podcast for Ferrero exploring sustainability in the confectionery industry
• “Edge of Reason” – A three-season, award-winning arts and culture podcast produced in partnership with The Atlantic and Hauser & Wirth
• “The Good-Bye” – An original series that explores the transformative power of grief
• Scripting work for “Anatomy of Murder” – A top-ranked true crime podcast
• And most recently, a guest appearance on The Giglo Beach Killer series on Peacock, which premiered June 10.
Whether you meet McGarvey at the farmers’ market, hear her on a podcast or catch her walking her dogs, one thing’s for sure—she’s someone who listens, cares and is helping to build a more connected world, one story at a time.
BUILDING COMMUNITY
McGarvey’s storytelling superpower isn’t confined to the professional world. She brings the same intention and care into the community around her. This year, she volunteered to lead a Girl Scout Troop made up of 16 girls from Mueller and the neighboring Cherrywood area. The group bridges the transition from Brownies to Juniors, serving girls ages 8 to 10. Leading the troop has been a way for McGarvey to create connection— for the girls and for herself. “It’s about helping them feel seen and heard in their own neighborhood,” she says. Through troop meetings, conversations and outings, she’s also formed friendships with other parents, weaving together a little community within the larger fabric of Mueller.
And when McGarvey’s not working or leading her troop? You’ll likely find her outside with her three nearly identical brown dogs—Todd, Pugster and Curly— walking the Southwest Greenway or tending to her garden. One of the few homes in the neighborhood with a fuzzy cactus, McGarvey’s garden is a joyful expression of the love and care she pours into everything she does.
When asked what she loves most about Mueller, McGarvey describes it in a way that stops me in my tracks. “The community you feel in Mueller is both quiet and loud,” she says. She elaborated by saying the feeling of community is loud in the obvious ways—people travel here from outside the neighborhood for the farmers market or to walk around the lake. But it’s also quiet in the subtle
ways that fill your cup, like a wave from a neighbor or a beautiful garden you walk by every day.
For McGarvey, the Mueller community and her work in storytelling both serve a similar purpose: They make her feel less alone. In helping others tell their stories, she’s found her own place. In leading young girls, she’s created connections. And in tending to her home, her garden and her pack of
pups, she’s found beauty in the everyday. Whether you meet McGarvey at the farmers’ market, hear her on a podcast or catch her walking her dogs, one thing’s for sure—she’s someone who listens, cares and is helping build a more connected world, one story at a time.
To connect with Shannon or learn more about Moonpie Media, visit www.moonpiemedia.com.
Cristina Tangredi is communications professional dedicated to creating community-first communications, and has over seven years of experience in nonprofits, government agencies and PR firms.
The Sound of Community
Ivan Treviño shares a rich musical background with university students— and audiences at impromptu neighborhood concerts.
BY CARMEN GRAY
OON A BALMY, breezy evening in early summer, I joined a group of neighbors who occasionally gather to enjoy the gentle sounds of the marimba and other percussion instruments organized by Ivan Treviño. He and his wife, Amanda, moved into an idyllic little spot in Mueller in 2016, settling into their home just as that section of the neighborhood was being built.
“At the time, there was only one home built, and then the courtyard came along,” he recalls. “I guess we’re lucky we all like each other, because we see one another on a daily basis!” Indeed, it is clear that his words ring true: Neighbors greet each other with warm smiles and friendly check-ins, blankets or chairs in hand to claim a spot in the grass, eager to listen to the creative musical acts as the sun sets.
Before moving to Mueller, Treviño lived in Rochester, New York, where he attended the Eastman School of Music. It was there he met Amanda, an Austin native and former drum major at McCallum High School.
After relocating to Austin, Treviño began teaching at Baylor University School of Music, where he still plays as a guest artist once in a while. In 2021, he earned a prestigious position at the University of Texas at Austin’s Butler School of Music, where he now serves as Assistant Professor of Practice in Percussion.
MUSICAL MOMENTS
In addition to being a teacher, Treviño is an accomplished composer and passionate arts advocate. His music has been performed on five continents and in over 25 countries—a testament to his global reach and deep love for his craft.
Treviño is also well-known for his work as a drummer with Break of Reality, an international touring cello rock quartet. Break of Reality has released five studio albums and been featured on PBS, Huffington Post and Yahoo Music, and is in regular rotation on National Public Radio.
Originally from Victoria, Texas—a small town south of San Antonio— Treviño naturally appreciates the strong sense of community in the Mueller neighborhood. That love of connection, paired with his musical expertise, eventually found its way into his own front yard.
“Some of my students are interested in composing their own music, and that gives us a sandbox to have a flexible curriculum,” he explains. This spark of creativity led to informal neighborhood concerts during the early days of the pandemic.
Treviño had brought his marimba home to play, and soon the courtyard filled with the sounds of live music. He also hosted drum circles and invited students and colleagues to join in, creating an impromptu
LEARN MORE
If you can’t catch one of Ivan Treviño’s courtyard concerts, you can still enjoy his work online by scanning this code.
celebration to mark the end of the semester.
The tradition continues, with plans to keep spreading the word about these homegrown performances. It was evident when I watched his students perform in May that Treviño has instilled in them playfulness and creativity.
SHARING KNOWLEDGE
Treviño encourages his students to bring music into the broader community as well. One student recently held a concert at the Mueller pavilion, which was a meaningful experience for both performer and audience. In another recent outreach effort, his students performed at Dell Children’s Hospital, bringing inspiring music to young patients and their families.
Treviño’s compositions are both relaxing and joyful. One standout piece is “Watercolor Sun,” a marimba quartet for one shared 4.3-octave marimba. Commissioned by Grammy Award-winning ensemble Third Coast
Percussion, the piece was released in 2023. His song “Pajarito,” written for the UT Austin Percussion Ensemble, is fun and infectious, with instruments including marimbas, vibraphone, congas, cajon and shaker. This music was definitely made to make people dance and sing, and it connects with Treviño’s roots.
In addition to his university teaching, Treviño offers a variety of clinics. One, titled Intro to Composing, mentors young musicians who are eager to write their own music but are unsure where to begin or how to develop their ideas. Another is a lecture on music entrepreneurship, which he has delivered at universities across the country. It explores the current state of the music industry and provides insights into building audiences and creating new opportunities.
Treviño is not only an extraordinary musician but also a generous educator and community builder. His passion resonates far beyond the concert hall— into classrooms, courtyards and hearts.
Mini Banana Lunchbox Loaves
BY ALIX NEWTON
LOOKING FOR A WHOLESOME, portable treat that’s perfect for lunchboxes, snack time or on-the-go breakfasts? These Mini Banana Bread Lunchbox
Loaves are just the answer. Made with ripe bananas and a tender crumb, they’re naturally sweet, easy to make, and loved by kids and adults alike. Whether you prefer the burst of juicy blueberries or the comforting richness of chocolate chips, there’s a flavour for every craving. Bake a batch, mix and match the variations, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-go snacks for the whole week!
Makes: 8 loaves
Prep time: 30 minutes
Bake time: 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS
For the mini banana bread loaf cakes:
• 1 ½ sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 medium ripe bananas
For the flavour options:
• ¾ cup milk- or darkchocolate chips
• ¾ cup blueberries
INSTRUCTIONS
Start by making the mini banana bread loaf cakes:
1. Preheat oven to 350F and lightly grease an 8-hole mini loaf tin with butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined, then add the flour and gently fold the mixture until smooth and just combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mash the bananas until smooth and puréed. Then fold into the sponge mixture. Divide into two parts.
To make chocolate chip banana bread:
• Fold the chocolate chips into the cake mixture.
• Divide the mixture evenly between half the holes in the tin, filling each hole ¾ full.
• Sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top.
To make blueberry banana bread:
• Fold the blueberries into the cake mixture.
• Divide the mixture evenly between half the holes in the tin, filling each hole ¾ full.
• Sprinkle a few extra blueberries on top.
5. Bake the loaves for 18-20 minutes until risen and golden.
Let cool for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the outside of each cake and carefully release it from the tin. Cool completely on a wire rack. Keep in an airtight container for up to five days.
Alix Newton is a baking blogger and photographer who, along with her family, recently moved to Mueller from the United Kingdom. Sharing her tasty food creations is her way of giving back to the community that has welcomed her. Visit Alix online at www.mykitchensdrawer.com and follow her on social media @mykitchendrawer.
PERSPECTIVES
Yellow Is Like a Good Neighbor
POEM BY SHAWNA KRUGER
Yellow is like a good neighbor. In fact, yellow is the neighbor I call my high-energy neighbor.
I’ve never met them, but each time I go to open my door and let in fresh air and sunlight, their door is already open. Their patio is arranged like we live in a small town in Europe, and they are the only ones I’ve ever seen sit outside and read for hours on Saturday as if it were so.
When all windows are dark and shut, theirs always glows with warm light even in the early hours.
Above their patio there is a drainage pipe that birds have made a home in, and all day long the birds go in and out, and in and out.
Yellow is the neighbor that makes me wonder if I, too, have birds above my patio.
Shawna Kruger is a Mueller resident who, aside from writing poetry, has her own podcast and enjoys teaching yoga.
PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY SOLUTION
Austin, TX — Are you experiencing numbness, tingling, or pain in the hands and feet? Are you finding it difficult to balance and have a fear of falling? It’s possible you have Peripheral Neuropathy which is caused by nerve damage.
Peripheral Neuropathy is a chronic degenerative disease. If left untreated, the condition will continue to progress. Over time our nerves experience a loss of blood supply from constriction which leads to degeneration. A damaged nerve will start to send abnormal signals to the brain which will bring sensations of burning, tingling, and intense pain. Further, more serious progression of nerve damage will present as numbness. This leads to a high risk of falling, dropping things, and loss of independence.
Now for some good news. There is a facility right here in Austin that offers hope for relief without having to take drugs with harmful side effects.
Figure 2: Just as plant’s roots grow when watered, the blood vessels will grow back around the nerves.
Three Factors to Effectively Treat Neuropathy:
1) Find the Underlying Cause
2) Evaluate the amount of nerve damage
3) Determine the amount of treatment required
Goals of Treatment:
1) Increase Blood Flow
2) Stimulate Nerve Fibers
3) Decrease Pain
Our treatments return blood flow and nutrients to the affected area to stimulate the growth and repair of blood vessels and peripheral nerves.
Nerves shrivel when blood flow disappears
Figure 1 provides a visual of what happens when the blood vessels that surround the nerve become constricted and shrivel up. This prevents the nerve from getting the blood supply and nutrients it needs to survive. As these nerves begin to degenerate it leads to Peripheral Neuropathy.
Dr. Lucas Brown, DAOM at Rosedale Acupuncture & Wellness, will perform a Neuropathy Severity Examination to determine the extent of the nerve damage, which consists of detailed sensory and vascular testing along with an analysis of neurological findings.
We will be offering this $40 examination from now until Tuesday, January 31st. To ensure quality of care Dr. Brown will only accept 10 new Peripheral Neuropathy patients a month.
Call 512-623-1996 to find out if you are a candidate for our program and get your life back.
STANDING OUT
NATURE’S BEAUTY is on full display in Mueller with this red-winged blackbird photographed right in our midst by Eric Dreher, who has lived in Mueller since 2017. Dreher recently renewed his interest in both photography and discovering new creatures at our neighborhood parks.
Have a great image for Photo Op?
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PHOTO
Last summer we opened our doors. Since then, you’ve welcomed us into your neighborhood, your style, and your stories. Thanks for letting us be part of Mueller. Come celebrate with us during the month of August!
