Issuu

Mueller

JANUARY 2026

STEP INTO A SENSE OF CALM

THE HERB BAR

FINDING HOME HILAL ISLER ON LIFE IN MUELLER

Progress Over Perfection

PILATES INSTRUCTOR LEE VALLELY

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LOCALLY SOURCED. THOUGHTFULLY CRAFTED. SEED OIL FREE.

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Your YourNeighbor, Neighbor,Your YourRealtor, Realtor,Your YourAdvocate Advocate L OLCOACLARLERAELAELSETAT E EEXEPXEPRETROT NO M LL E LRE’ SR ’LSI FLEI FSETS YTL Y EL E S TAT N UMEUL E

As aAsreal estate professional andand proud resident of the Mueller neighborhood, I love being a real estate professional 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, a part of this vibrant, close-knit community. With its mix of modern homes, green spaces, andand walkable amenities, Mueller truly offers something special. Living herehere gives me me an an walkable amenities, Mueller truly offers something special. Living gives inside perspective on the area’s unique market andand lifestyle, which I use to help clients make inside perspective on the area’s unique market lifestyle, which I use to help clients make informed andand confident decisions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about thethe informed confident decisions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about neighborhood, I’mI’m always happy to share my my expertise andand enthusiasm for for thisthis amazing neighborhood, always happy to share expertise enthusiasm amazing place we we callcall home. place home.

Soud Twal Soud Twal

GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR

512.787.8617 512.787.8617 soud.twal@sothebysrealty.com soud.twal@sothebysrealty.com soudtwal.com soudtwal.com

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Contents JANUARY 2026

20 F EATU RES

A Place to Call Home

Hilal Isler didn’t expect to find a fulfilling community in Texas, but Mueller quickly welcomed her home. 16

Slow Down and Relax

At the Herb Bar, you can leave your troubles at the door and step into a sense of calm. 20

14 10

Progress Over Perfection

As we kick off the new year with big goals, Lee Vallely reminds us to priortize the small but meaningful movements in life.

I N TH I S I S SU E

PUBLISHER’S NOTE Happy New Year!

WHAT’S NEW In the Neighborhood

MEET ME AT THE MARKET A Taste of Home

Q&A Healing the Heart

HOME FRONT The Gift of Greenery

PERSPECTIVES “Fiesty Senior Writers”

PHOTO OP A Moment of Calm

COVER

Lee Vallely poses for our January cover. Photograph by TJ Creative Agency

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PUB LISH ER’S NOTE

Mueller MAGAZINE

Editor & Publisher Liz Reingold Writers Carmen Gray Cristina Tangredi

THE HOLIDAYS HAVE come and gone, and suddenly we’re stepping into 2026. A new year always invites a pause: What does it mean to you? Is it a moment to reflect, reset, or set new intentions? Do you make resolutions? And more importantly, do they stick? In this issue, Pilates instructor and fitness expert Lee Vallely offers a refreshing perspective on building habits that actually last. Her approach is grounded in small, meaningful changes that ripple into every part of your life. Lee will be

PHOTOGRAPH BY MARGARITA GARCIA ACEVEDO

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

checking in over the next few months with additional tips to get us through the year. Continuing our theme of starting the year feeling good, Cristina Tangredi takes us inside an Austin icon, The Herb Bar, in nearby Cherrywood. She explores natural wellness, intentional healing, and the timeless appeal of supporting the body gently and holistically. We also introduce you to Wen Chang of Integrative Creative Therapy, who brings a thoughtful, alternative approach to mental and emotional well-being, especially for those who connect more deeply through creative expression, music, and movement. And finally, what better way to welcome a new year than by welcoming a new family to our community. Carmen Gray speaks with Hilal Isler about her journey to America and eventually Mueller. Her story is fascinating! However you choose to begin your year, I hope you find something in these pages that inspires you, grounds you, or simply brings a moment of joy. Here’s to a vibrant, intentional start to 2026. Happy New Year from Mueller Magazine!

Liz Reingold Publisher

Photographers Margarita Garcia Acevedo Marketing Coordinator Nicole Higgins

WAINSCOT MEDIA Chairman Carroll V. Dowden President and CEO Mark Dowden SVP, Group Publisher Thomas Flannery VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan Creative Director Kijoo Kim Art Director Rosemary O’Connell Executive Editor Elaine Quilici Associate Editor Sophia Carlisle Advertising Services Director Jacquelynn Fischer Operations Director Catherine Rosario Production Designer Chris Ferrante Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

Mueller magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Mueller, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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 Let’s Get Social! Join our online community.

 @muellermagazine

DHARMA YOGA Have a photo or story you think should be featured?

celebrating 20 years of breathing deeply

Want to learn more about advertising in our pages?

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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

European Wax Center

Floyd’s 99 Barbershop

Honest Mary’s

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Mueller Silent Market

Nature’s Treasures

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Explore the beauty of Nature’s Treasures, your iconic rock and crystal shop since 2000, and invite nature into your daily life with home and garden décor, jewelry, sage and pocket stones. 512-472-5015 | www.NTRocks.com @naturestreasurestexas

European Wax Center is the numver one safe place to start removing hair safely and effectively at an incredibly affordable price. First Time Guests can try it for free. 512.617.9157 | www.waxcenter.com/pages/first-wax-free @europeanwax

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

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

S A N TA

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CATARINA Mexican Restaurant Santa Catarina

Santa Catarina is a boutique family restaurant with homestyle cooking from South Central Mexico. Our bar features 100% Agave tequilas and Mezcales. All of our juices are homemade: no sugar added. 512.291.7154 | www.santacatarinarestaurant.com @santacatarinatx

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 | www.Staustinschool.org

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Texas Mutual

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

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. 512.469.6201 | www.thinkeryaustin.org @thinkeryatx

The Herb Bar

The Salty Sow

Vaura Pilates

VIO Med Spa

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

Vaura Pilates fuses reformer precision with athletic training in a sensory rich studio. Energize your body, elevate your mind, and awaken within. 512.481.2795 | www.Vaurapilates.com @vaura-mueller

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TELLİNG STORIES THROUGH MUSIC

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Learn more about our new sponsorship program. Contact Liz Reingold at Liz.Reingold@muellermagazine.com.

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ENSEMBLE SLOTS STİLL AVAİLABLE

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WHAT ’S NEW

In the Neighborhood THINKERY For many years, little learners and their caregivers have enjoyed special themed mornings just for our tiniest explorers, filled with sensory play, STEAM activities, and plenty of room to discover. Designed for children ages 0 to 3, this beloved program will bring the Arctic Adventures theme starting this January. Fridays and Saturdays, 8 to 10 a.m. www.thinkeryaustin.org/baby-bloomers

DHARMA YOGA Dharma Yoga, Austin’s longest-running yoga studio, is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Voted “Best Yoga Studio in East Austin,” Dharma Yoga’s celebrated teacher trainings have certified over 700 instructors. Daily classes range from vigorous vinyasa flows to gentle candlelit nightcaps. Its broad appeal for students of all levels has made it a recommended destination across Austin.

ST. GEORGE’S PRESCHOOL Open house for parents at St. George’s Episcopal School: Jan. 21 to 22. St. George’s Episcopal School, Austin’s oldest preschool, throws open its doors to all families with young children once per year at its annual Open House. Experience the 2.5-acre nature playground, meet Head of School Jerri Thompson for a presentation and Q&A, and go home with all the tools you need to enroll your child. Scan the QR code for details.

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.

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PICK YOUR PERKS! Meet me in Mueller

Choose 1 perk per category: Event Room Block

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Complimentary Self-Parking 1/25 actualized room nights complimentary Double Wyndham Rewards Points per $1 spent on Room Nights 2 complimentary Suite upgrades Complimentary Beer/Wine voucher for each guest at check-in

Complimentary Champagne Toast for up to 50 people

Complimentary Chef’s Choice Afternoon Snack

2 Complimentary Chef’s Choice Hors D’oeuvres

Complimentary Pastry Bar 20% off Breakfast Buffet

Complimentary upgrade to Premium Liquor Package when booking basic Liquor Package

Receive 50% off Meeting Room Rental when booking two or more days

For every $1,000 spent on catering, receive a $100 credit towards a Beverage Package

Double Wyndham Rewards points per $1 spent on Food & Beverage spend

Terms & Conditions: Perks are applicable to Blocks and Meetings that occur between January 1, 2026 & March 31, 2026. Must book by March 30, 2026 in order to redeem. Eligibility and availability is at the discretion of Origin Hotel Austin.

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M E ET M E AT TH E MARKET

A Taste of Home Kelsie Jones of Moonstone Baking Company takes us inside her delicious treats and the history behind them. BY CARMEN GRAY

ON SUNDAY MORNINGS at the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller, it’s easy to spot Kelsie Jones. Just look for the purple Moonstone Baking Company sign and the line of eager regulars waiting for a taste of her Texan–Czech pastries. Jones’ inspiration runs deeper than her recipes. It begins with her great-grandmother, Anna Pokluda, born in Hallettsville, Texas, in 1899 to Czech parents. Pokluda’s husband, Frank, emigrated from Moravia with his family in 1901, part of a growing Czech community drawn to the affordable farmland of South and

Central Texas. After their marriage in 1918, the couple moved to Houston, where Frank worked in several bakeries before becoming a baker at the historic Ben Milam Hotel. Jones grew up hearing stories from her father, who spent summers with his grandparents. “He had the sweetest stories of going to work with my greatgrandfather and baking with my greatgrandmother,” Jones recalls. “She sold her treats in their neighborhood and at their church.” Those memories would eventually shape Jones’ own culinary path.

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ROOTED IN HERITAGE Raised in Conroe, just north of Houston, Jones moved to Austin in 2016 and carried her family’s heritage with her. “Kolaches are traditionally filled with fruit, sort of like a Danish,” she explains. “But the Texas style, with smoked sausage, was created here in the ’50s by Czech immigrants. I think you can feel that connection when you taste my baked goods.” As anyone who’s traveled to Prague might notice, kolaches there are sweet, while Texans have proudly embraced the savory twist. Ambitious and entrepreneurial, Jones secured a small business loan through DreamSpring and quickly proved her momentum. Today, you can find Moonstone’s offerings not only at the Mueller market but also at Mañana Dos in Austin, as well as at Thorn & Bred and Chaparral Coffee in Lockhart, where Jones now lives. At the Mueller market, her best-selling item is the Jalapeño, Sausage & Cheese Kolache, followed closely by her Brioche Cinnamon Rolls. “I started attending the market in 2018, and it’s been incredible to watch it grow,” she says. “With that growth, I’ve met so many regular customers,

including lots of Mueller residents. Connecting with customers and fellow vendors each week, that’s the heart of the market. It’s a special community.” Moonstone Baking Co. has recently expanded into custom cakes, and Jones now receives four to five orders a month, with July through September being the busiest season. She also brings individual cake slices to the market, delighting customers who love discovering new flavor combinations. This fall, her apple cider donuts developed a devoted following. “I try to keep up with a ‘baked good of the week,’” she says. “It keeps my creative side happy.” As for the business name, Jones says it honors her great-grandmother. “Moonstone, a beautiful purplish-pink crystal, represents the divine feminine. It felt fitting, because my great-grandmother never had the chance to have her own business. This is my tribute to her.” You’ll find Moonstone Baking Co. just outside the pavilion at the Mueller market, facing the splash pad. And if a trip to the Czech Republic isn’t on your calendar anytime soon, Jones’ kolaches offer a delicious taste of heritage much closer to home.

Randall Holt of Luminaria Acres

Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a retired teacher, published author and freelance writer. JANUARY 2026 |

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A Place to Call

Home

Hilal Isler didn’t expect to find a fulfilling community in Texas, but Mueller quickly welcomed her home. BY CARMEN GRAY

THERE’S NO SHORTAGE of talent here in Mueller, and one of our newest neighbors, Hilal Isler, is proof of that. She recently moved to the neighborhood with her husband, Volkan, and their 14-year-old son. The family relocated to Austin when Volkan accepted a position as a professor in the University of Texas Department of Computer Science. As luck would have it, the move came with an opportunity for Hilal, too. A PhD graduate from the University of Pennsylvania, she previously taught social justice at the University of Minnesota and now serves as an associate professor of Instruction in

UT’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction. We met at a neighborhood park on a crisp, sunny November morning, the kind of day that reminds you why people fall in love with Texas winters. Naturally, our conversation began with the weather. “The snow gets old!” Hilal says with a grin, after 17 years in Minnesota. When I asked about her first impression of Austin, her answer came easily. “As soon as we arrived at the airport, there was a live band playing. We knew right away we were in a special place.” They visited in the spring, a fun time to be in Austin with sunshine and mild

weather as opposed to snow and gray skies. They searched for homes close to the university and loved many of the central Austin neighborhoods that they visited, like Hyde Park. But, ultimately, they fell hard for the charm of Mueller. I asked her what they love most about it. “We love that Mueller is walkable, diverse, and family-oriented,” she says. “There’s such a strong sense of community here, and the parks and green spaces are beautiful.” “I also love the Farmers’ Market, the whole vibe of it with kids playing and music in the background. It’s so special,” she adds. “And H-E-B! What a revelation!”

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Isler with her husband Volakn and son Aksel.

INTERNATIONAL HISTORY Long before Minnesota, Isler’s story had already spanned continents. Born in Australia to Turkish parents (both professors), she was raised in Canada, Riyadh, and Turkey. “As a kid, I didn’t like moving so much,” she admits. “I was shy, and it was hard to make friends. But now I see it was a blessing in disguise.” Through all those moves, she discovered that books and libraries were the constants that grounded her. No matter which city landed in, she could always seek out libraries and find a good book to read. That love of stories and sense of cultural

in-between-ness eventually inspired her debut novel, “Har Mar,” which released in July of 2025. “I wrote these stories partly out of frustration,” she explains. “I didn’t see authentic portrayals of my part of the world. What I found often felt reductionist. I wanted to tell the stories of the women I knew to broaden the conversation.” Isler’s writing has appeared in Rolling Stone India, The Guardian (US), The Paris Review, and many other well-known publications. A 2023 McKnight Fellow in Creative Prose, she has written countless articles and essays. Her global

perspective gives her work a rare blend of empathy and insight, exploring borders, identity, and the Turkish diaspora with a voice both lyrical and wise. Now, as she settles into life in Austin, Isler continues to teach, write, and explore her new community. Her story reminds us that every neighbor brings a world of experiences with them and that’s exactly what makes Mueller such a rich, welcoming place to call home. Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a retired teacher, published author and freelance writer. JANUARY 2026 |

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Slow Down and Relax At the Herb Bar, you can leave your troubles at the door and step into a sense of calm. BY CRISTINA TANGREDI

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IN A PACE-DRIVEN world, many of us are seeking spaces that let us breathe a little deeper and care for ourselves with intention. Just a short walk from Mueller, the Herb Bar has opened in Cherrywood to offer the community exactly what we need. As Austin’s oldest apothecary, the Herb Bar is the kind of place where the moment you step inside, your shoulders drop, your breath softens, and your whole body exhales. Every corner is thoughtfully designed to help you learn about herbs and

reconnect with the natural world, all within a space that feels inviting, grounding, and a little bit magical. The Herb Bar may be new to Cherrywood, but it’s far from new to Austin. The shop first opened in Bouldin Creek in 1986 and has since been passed from one woman to another, each nurturing it and preserving its heart. The mission has always been the same: Create a community-centered space where people feel supported and empowered to take their health into their own hands.

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VISIT THE HERB BAR:

BEGINNINGS When the Herb Bar moved to Cherrywood in May 2025, owner Megen Mundy and the Herb Bar team were excited to reach a new community. The new location offers more room to wander and explore the shop’s herbs and treasures. Inside, shelves are lined with more than 150 loose herbs, over 50 house-made tea blends, and a beautiful selection of herbal tinctures, body care, incense, essential oils, and room sprays. Books on healing and herbal wisdom rest beside handpicked gems, journals, and jewelry. There’s also a spacious outdoor yard for vendor markets and a separate studio and kitchen where workshops, herbal projects,

and creativity come to life. The Herb Bar feels part shop, part sanctuary— somewhere to learn, browse, sip tea, and reconnect with yourself. And on these colder days ahead, it’s the perfect stop for a cozy tea blend. Sometimes, there’s even a warm pot brewed and waiting for you to pour a cup. For many, the herbal world can feel overwhelming, but the Herb Bar takes a welcoming and inclusive approach. Visitors are encouraged to ask questions and learn at their own pace. The herbalists at the shop listen and assist customers with zero judgment, a hallmark of the shop, and one of owner Megen Mundy’s favorite aspects of the business.

Cherrywood 3200 Merrie Lynn Ave., Austin, TX 78722 Tuesday to Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop in-store or order online: www.theherbbar.com

JANUARY 2025 |

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DEEP ROOTS Megen first discovered plant medicine in her late 20s, and quickly realized how understanding the power of plants allowed her to take her health into her own hands. She had been a staff member and frequent customer at the former Herb Bar location, falling in love with its history and the transformative power of plant medicine. Today, she carries that legacy forward, inviting others to experience it for themselves. Her favorite tea that Herb Bar sells? Golden Hour, a saffron-based blend that embodies the shop’s essence: nourishment, comfort, and a touch of magic. For newcomers to plant medicine, the Herb Bar offers hands-on workshops where participants can make their own tinctures, oils, and other herbal creations. On weekends, occasional vendor markets bring a vibrant energy to the yard, where local makers can join in and sell their creations. A trip to the Herb Bar is a gentle reminder that healing can be simple, slowing down can be meaningful, and taking care of ourselves can feel joyful. Whether you’re browsing, sipping tea, joining a workshop, or sinking into a lounge chair to unwind, the Herb Bar is grateful to be close to the Mueller neighborhood—and wants you to know you’re always welcome. Cristina Tangredi is dedicated to creating community-first communications, and has over seven years of experience in nonprofits, government agencies and PR firms.

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Got a great image for Photo-Op? PHOTO OP

Acting Squirrely

2023 Aldrich Street, Austin, Texas 78723 Mueller resident Suzanne O’Malley spotted this little guy enjoying a beautiful day on Berkman Drive. Someone is ready for spring!

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Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to liz.reingold@muellermagazine.com.

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3/6/24 2:08 PM

Winter Blooms

10/9/25 12:47 PM

New year, refreshed insurance benefits Now’s the perfect time to prioritize your family’s vision

Mother Nature’s marvels are on full display after a cold

snap in January, as this tree at the entrance to Mueller Lake Park maintained its flowers even during the coldest part of winter. We are a hardy bunch in Texas—and so are the trees!

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Progress Over Perfection

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As we kick off the new year with big goals, Lee Vallely reminds us to prioritize the small but meaningful movements in life.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY TJ CREATIVE AGENCY

EVERY JANUARY, gyms overflow, people set ambitious goals, and the annual “resolutions” are made. The cultural rhythm is familiar: a surge of determination, a commitment to new habits, and a collective belief that the turn of a calendar page will usher in lasting change. Yet by February, that burst of enthusiasm often begins to fade. As daily routines settle in and the novelty wears off, motivation dwindles. Many people find themselves discouraged, wondering why a fresh start felt so promising only weeks before. Pilates instructor Lee Vallely, founder of the Lee Pilates Method, has observed this pattern for decades. To her, the issue isn’t a lack of willpower or sincerity; it’s a misunderstanding of what truly sustains long-term progress. “Motivation isn’t meant to carry you,” she says. “Consistency is. Discipline is. But most importantly, it’s about focusing on who you want to be, not just what you want to do.”

JANUARY 2026 |

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INTENTIONAL MOVEMENT Her approach centers on the transformative impact of incremental, intentional movement. She describes progress as something that happens “quietly and cumulatively,” built through tiny repetitions that rewire the brain and strengthen the body. “Ten minutes of movement in the morning, a stretch between meetings, a few deep breaths before bed may seem small and insignificant,” she says, “but over time they compound. They support your posture, ease pain, and help you move with more control and awareness.” This science-backed perspective resonates with clients who often arrive overwhelmed by the pressure to pursue drastic changes. Lee reassures them that lasting wellness doesn’t require upheaval. It requires commitment to actions that are achievable on even the busiest days. “You don’t need to overhaul your routine in January,” she says. “You just need to start where you are and with something you can sustain.” While resolutions tend to be rigid and tied to fleeting motivation, intentions, Lee explains, offer a more grounded and flexible approach. Intentions are anchored in identity and self-awareness, which are qualities essential to the philosophy she teaches. “I encourage clients to shift their self-image,” she says. “Instead of saying, ‘I need to work out more,’ they might say, ‘I’m a person who prioritizes movement.’ That subtle identity shift changes how you show up in your life.” Intentions invite grace and adaptability, allowing individuals to maintain their commitment even when routines fluctuate. This gentler mindset, Lee adds, is often what keeps people engaged long enough

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to experience meaningful change. Lee is quick to point out that our Mueller community itself is an ideal setting for cultivating healthy habits. With its expansive green spaces, walkable streets, bike paths, and neighborhood energy, Mueller provides residents with built-in opportunities for movement. “Movement is woven into daily life here,” she says. “People walk their kids to school, bike to the farmers market, and spend time at the parks. All of these day-to-day activities make is easier to stay active.” Mueller residents often echo this sentiment, noting that the neighborhood environment naturally supports consistent, lower-pressure wellness habits. For Lee, this alignment between community design and movement philosophy reinforces the message she brings into her studio: that meaningful change thrives when it integrates into everyday life.

EMBRACE THE JOURNEY A cornerstone of Lee’s method is helping clients release perfectionism, which is a mindset she identifies as one of the biggest obstacles to long-term success. January often amplifies this pressure, leading people to set unrealistic expectations and then feel discouraged when they falter. “In Pilates, we value alignment, precision, and control,” she says. “But we also value compassion. Progress comes from repeated, intentional practice, not from doing everything perfectly.” By encouraging clients to view movement as a process rather than a performance, Lee helps them build a more sustainable relationship with their bodies. This approach not only reduces the risk of injury but also fosters confidence, resilience, and deeper physical awareness. As we enter a new year, Lee’s

guidance feels refreshingly attainable: Begin with 10 minutes of mindful movement each day. Engage the core. Lengthen the spine. Breathe with intention. “It doesn’t have to be intense,” she emphasizes. “It just has to be consistent. True transformation begins with small, mindful actions. When we focus on alignment, breath, and intention, we build strength not only in the body but also in the brain. That’s where real change takes root.” As Mueller steps into 2026, Lee’s message provides an alternative to the high-pressure reset that often defines the new year: Meaningful change doesn’t require reinvention. It requires intention, consistency, and the willingness to start gently, exactly where you are. For more information, contact Lee@leepilates.com. JANUARY 2026 |

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Healing the Heart Through music and imagination, Integrative Creative Therapy is helping Mueller residents begin the journey of healing.

INTERVIEW WITH

WEN CHANG, MA, MT-BC, LCAT, EMDR CERTIFIED THERAPIST WHEN WORDS ALONE aren’t enough, creativity can open the door to healing. At Integrative Creative Therapy, founder Wen Chang combines music, movement, and expressive arts with evidence-based psychotherapy to help clients reconnect with themselves and rediscover joy. A trauma-informed Creative Arts Therapist and EMDRcertified clinician, Chang works with children, teens, and adults both locally and online, bringing a deeply compassionate, whole-person approach to her practice.

For those who may not be familiar, what is Integrative Creative Therapy? Integrative Creative Therapy is built on the belief that true healing happens when we listen not only to our thoughts, but also to our bodies, emotions, and inner wisdom. I integrate multiple modalities such as music, movement, imagery, and talk therapy to meet each person exactly where they are. Through creative expression, imagination, and play, clients reconnect with their authentic selves and build resilience, confidence, and joy. In New York, I provide online therapy for teens and adults focusing on trauma healing. Here in Austin, I offer in-person creative arts and music therapy for neurodiverse children, as well as teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Creative expression is a portal to our inner world. For many, it opens doors that traditional talk therapy alone can’t reach.

Who can benefit from this type of therapy? This approach is for anyone who struggles to fully connect through traditional talk therapy such as children with developmental differences, teens experiencing emotional challenges, adults seeking deeper healing, or older adults living with dementia or recovering from stroke. It’s especially helpful for people who feel stuck to sense that their body holds unprocessed pain, or struggle to express emotions verbally. You might benefit from this work if you’ve experienced trauma, live with chronic self-criticism or perfectionism, feel disconnected from your body, or want to rediscover creativity and joy after burnout. How is this different from more traditional therapy? Talk therapy often focuses on insight and conversation understanding patterns and feelings through words.

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That can be incredibly valuable, but for many people, especially those who’ve learned to intellectualize their emotions, words can sometimes create distance rather than connection. Integrative Creative Therapy invites the whole self, body, senses, and creativity into the process. Using tools like EMDR, movement, and music, we access layers of experience that words alone can’t reach. Music, in particular, has a unique way of engaging the whole brain neurologically, physically, emotionally, and socially. A rhythm can calm the nervous system. A familiar melody can awaken memory. A shared song can rebuild connection and belonging. For neurodiverse individuals and people with learning differences or dementia, music and creative expression become a language of connection when speech feels out of reach. It’s not about “fixing” someone; it’s about helping them reconnect with their body, emotions, and the parts of themselves that have been quiet for too long. What kinds of sessions do you offer in Austin? We offer both individual and group creative arts and music therapy for children, teens, adults, and older adults. Sessions support those navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, or neurodiversity.

I also offer therapy for Mandarin speakers and first-generation Asian Americans who are seeking a space where culture, language, and emotion can coexist naturally. Do you need to be artistic to participate? Not at all! Creative arts and music therapy aren’t about talent or skill. They are about self-expression and healing. You don’t need to be a musician or artist. The focus is on using creative tools to explore emotions and experiences safely, with guidance from the therapist. Growth happens in the process, not the product. Why did you choose to bring Integrative Creative Therapy to Austin and specifically Mueller? My family moved to Austin two years ago to be closer to my husband’s family and their business, Batch Craft Beer and Kolache. Through Batch, my husband, Gabriel, has connected with a vibrant community of musicians. One of those friends, guitarist Andrew Baird, recently opened The Music Academy of Austin here in Mueller. Our shared passion for music and creative expression inspired us to collaborate and bring the therapeutic side of music to the neighborhood. We both believe in the power of creativity to build community and connection.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone curious but hesitant to try creative therapy? If you’re curious, start with a free consultation. You don’t need to know what to expect or have any experience in the arts. We can talk about your goals, answer your questions, and explore whether this approach might fit your needs. Sometimes the hardest part is simply giving yourself permission to begin. Anything else you’d like to share with the Mueller community? Our vision is to build a space where creativity nurtures mental health and community well-being. When we create together through sound, movement, or imagination, we connect with ourselves and each other in profound ways. That connection is where healing begins. Learn more or schedule a consultation at www.intergrtivecreativetherapy.com or @intergrative_creative_therapy. JANUARY 2026 |

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HOM E FRONT

The Gift of Greenery Plants add beauty and health benefits to your space. Green thumb optional. BY JENNA GALLETTI

THERE’S A REASON plant parents never stop at just one. Even if every single leaf in your home is technically green, the variety is endless. Think about it: a monstera’s glossy, hole-punched leaves look nothing like the trailing strands of a pothos, or the spiky drama of a snake plant. Some grow tall and upright like proud little sentinels, others drape elegantly from shelves or cascade out of hanging baskets. Even the shades of green tell a story—soft sage, deep emerald, chartreuse, nearly black. It’s all proof that green is anything but boring. CATS VS. PLANTS (THE SHOWDOWN) If your cat friends think plants are a salad bar, don’t give up on greenery just yet. Instead, get creative with placement.

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Floating shelves are perfect little stages for trailing plants, and ceiling hooks with decorative macramé hangers let you hang plants safely out of paw’s reach. The result? Your cats stay safe, your plants stay whole, and your home looks like an urban jungle. Win-win-win. CONSIDER YOUR LIFESTYLE Not everyone has the time (or patience) to mist exotic orchids twice a day. Luckily, plants come with different care levels, and some are basically foolproof. A few of the most “goof-proof” options: • Snake plant: practically thrives on neglect • ZZ plant: glossy, low-maintenance, and nearly indestructible • Pothos: grows like crazy in almost any light • Philodendron: forgiving and fastgrowing, perfect for beginners

If you want a little more of a challenge, consider ferns or fiddle leaf figs, but only if you’re ready for the commitment. DRESS THEM UP Plants may bring the green, but pot brings the personality. A snake plant in terracotta feels earthy and relaxed, while the same plant in a glossy white ceramic looks modern and polished. A bold glazed planter can add a pop of color, while a woven basket creates an easy, laidback vibe. Switching up planters is a simple way to refresh your space and make your greenery feel even more intentional. REAP THE BENEFITS Yes, plants look good in every corner of the house, but they’re also good for you. Studies show that being surrounded by greenery

can reduce stress, boost focus, and even improve air quality. They add humidity to dry winter air and create a sense of calm in busy spaces. Simply put, plants make us feel good, and who doesn’t want a little more of that at home? Adding plants to your home doesn’t mean becoming a full-time gardener. Whether you’re building a shelf full of lush trailing vines, hanging a statement in green from the ceiling, or sticking to a single low-maintenance snake plant, there’s a plant friend for every personality and lifestyle. With a little creativity (and maybe a floating shelf or two), you can turn your space into a vibrant, living sanctuary, no green thumb required.

JANUARY 2026

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PERSPECTIVES

“Feisty Senior Writers” A selection of work by Cynthia A. Alexander BY CYNTHIA A. ALEXANDER

I recently discovered the wonder of joy on a Saturday night. Though I have been speaking figuratively, there are times I must tell you the truth. I wasn’t being nosy when I started observing everything the neighbors were doing, but paying close attention is what I called it. I sat on my balcony every Saturday just as the sun had retreated. The night let its blanket down like a shade in our house. I saw the neighbor’s 72-inch television, the baby crying, the man and woman fighting about the grocery list. Just another Saturday night. Our neighborhood was more than enough for eyes to see. I watched kids play flag football without arguing. I watched the girls play hopscotch on the

sidewalk—the crayon colors were the brightest orange, yellow, and blues in the streetlamp light. They matched the fall leaves we collected during the day. On this particular night, I saw something drop from the sky, and land right in the middle of our front yard. I had been watching sci-fi movies the week before, so I looked up at the sky and back to our yard. Fear came over me like never before. I sat on the balcony swing, paralyzed, until I finally realized the light came from my neighbor’s 72-inch television set, onto our glass sliding door, making the whole ordeal seem like something came from the sky. It was just another play on the eyes from one television to another glass sliding door.

An Assignment by Facilitator Deborah Elliott in my book as cowriter of “Feisty Senior Writers.”

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A MOMENT OF CALM CAPTURED ON A quiet day at Mueller Lake Park, this photo swept Lorene straight into a scene from “Stuart Little” with the gentle water and the feeling that a tiny adventure could begin at any moment

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PHOTO OP

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Empowering Mueller’s Infants, Toddlers, & Preschoolers for Over 50 Years

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*Calling all families! See “What’s New in the Neighborhood” in this magazine.

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New Year, New Home, New Possibilities. New New Year, Year, New New Home, Home, New New Possibilities. Possibilities.

Hilary Herrin Hilary Herrin Hilary Herrin

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Mueller Silent Market Team is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass. Compass is a Muellerreal Silent Market Team is abides a teamby of federal, real estate agents affiliated Compass. Compass is a licensed estate broker and state and local Equalwith Housing Opportunity laws. licensed real estate broker and abides by federal, state and local Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

Mueller Silent Market Team is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by federal, state and local Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

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