As the leading provider of workers’ compensation insurance in the state, Texas Mutual takes pride in the meaningful ways we’ve contributed to the Mueller community and our fellow Texans. By investing in the state’s economy and rewarding workplace safety, we’re helping to build a safer, stronger future for Mueller and all of Texas. Visit texasmutual.com to learn more.
12 Piano Man
Concert pianist Anton Nel traveled the world before finding a home in Mueller.
16 Beyond Books
Austin Central Library is a local gem that’s about much more than reading.
20 Smart Start
The Primrose School brings early educational excellence to more young children with help from Texas Mutual Insurance.
EVERY ISSUE
4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE Worth Celebrating
6 WHAT’S NEW Events and Attractions
8 MEET ME AT THE MARKET Belle Vie Farm and Kitchen 26 LOCAL TASTES Marshmallow Flower Cupcakes
Marak Walker
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.
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.
Soud Twal
Soud Twal
GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR
GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR
512.787.8617
512.787.8617
soud.twal@sothebysrealty.com soudtwal.com
soud.twal@sothebysrealty.com soudtwal.com
MWORTH CELEBRATING
MAY IS A BUSY MONTH of celebration. Whether you’re celebrating a graduation, a wedding or the end of school, there are many joyous events happening. And of course, super special is Mother’s Day. Regardless of who you consider your mother figure to be, moms just deserve a special day.
This issue, we also celebrate all the joy that surrounds us each day. We learn about Mueller’s own resident maestro: concert pianist and educator Anton Nel. His journey
from a young boy in South Africa to an accomplished musician here in America is a true feel-good story.
Our own Austin Central Library downtown is definitely something to celebrate. Carmen Gray paid a visit to our beautiful library and got a personal tour of this gem. If you have not been there in person, I recommend you go. It is not just a gorgeous building; it also offers incredible resources to all of us.
And let’s not forget to celebrate wonderful things that happen right here in the neighborhood. One such occurrence is the partnership between the Primrose School and Texas Mutual Insurance. Their collaboration has expanded the number of families that can be served in the community and has helped to broaden local early education and learning.
To honor the mothers in our midst, Alix Newton, our local food creator extraordinaire, shares a yummy Mother’s Day cupcake recipe to make for brunch or any time that something sweet and delicious is in order.
Whatever it is that you celebrate this May, enjoy!
Liz Reingold Publisher
Editor & Publisher
Liz Reingold
Writers
Carmen Gray
Alix Newton
Photographer
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.
In the Neighborhood
WELCOME, ROGER LAVON TAYLOR SR. PLAZA!
Mueller recently celebrated the milestone grand opening of its final park, the Roger Lavon Taylor Sr. Plaza, named for the former J.J. Seabrook Neighborhood Association president who tirelessly worked to preserve the iconic Mueller control tower located in the park. The ceremony included remarks from Mayor Kirk Watson as well as several other notable people connected to the new park. There was also an incredible performance from local aerial performers Blue Lapis Light. (Photos by Jane Yun)
AT THE LBJ: HOW “JAWS” ELECTRIFIED CONSERVATION
From President Lyndon B. Johnson’s speechwriter to “Jaws” author, Peter Benchley had a remarkable journey—but it didn’t end with a bestseller. The novel sparked a lifelong mission to protect sharks. The LBJ Presidential Library’s newest exhibit, “From the White House to the Ocean Deep: LBJ, ‘Jaws,’ and Conservation,” explores the writer’s story, his connection to President Johnson and the impact of “Jaws” on ocean conservation. Now open—don’t miss it!
REGISTER FOR AUSTIN’S ONLY MUSEUM-BASED PRESCHOOL
At Little Thinkers Preschool, every day is an adventure! With full access to Thinkery’s STEAM exhibits, outdoor play areas and a dedicated preschool outdoor classroom, students engage in hands-on, child-led learning that sparks kids’ innate curiosity, creativity, and a love of discovery. Registration is now open for the 2025–2026 school year.
"HE SAVED MY LIFE"
Austin resident Linda S. had been experiencing the painful side effects of Peripheral Neuropathy, "my feet and legs were extremely painful and my doctor told me there was nothing they could do. That I would have to take Gabapentin for the rest of my life." Then she met Dr. Brown.
Peripheral Neuropathy is the pain, discomfort and numbness caused by nerve damage of the peripheral nervous system. Linda explained that daily tasks like opening doors and using the bathroom were overwhelmingly painful. "How can you live for the next 30 years when you don't even want to get out of bed to do simple things?"
Linda hasn't worn socks in five years and was wearing shoes two sizes too big so that nothing would 'touch' her feet. She was experiencing the burning, numbness, tingling, and sharp pains that those suffering from neuropathy often describe. "The way that I would describe it, it's equivalent to walking on glass."
Unfortunately Linda's story is all too familiar for the over 3 million people suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy.
If you are unfortunate enough to be facing the same disheartening
prognosis, you're not sleeping at night because of the burning in your feet. You have difficulty walking, shopping, or doing any activity for more than 30 minutes because of the pain. You're struggling with balance and living in fear that you might fall. Your doctor told you to 'just live with the pain' and you're taking medications that aren't working or have terrible side effects.
Fortunately, four months ago Linda read an article about a new type of clinic in Austin that works with difficult to treat cases such as Peripheral Neuropathy suffers, without invasive surgeries and medications.
Dr. Lucas Brown DACM, L.Ac, founder of Rosedale
Acupuncture & Wellness is using the time-tested science of Acupuncture and technology originally developed by NASA that assists in increasing the blood flow and expediting recovery and healing to treat this debilitating disease.
"Now when I go to bed at night I don't have those shooting pains. I don't have that burning sensation. I don't have pain coming up my legs," Linda enthusiastically describes life after receiving treatment with Lucas. "I can wear socks and shoes!"
Now Linda and her sister operate a successful dog walking business, sometimes covering up to 5 miles a day.
"It's life altering. As far as I'm concerned Lucas saved my life!"
Dr. Brown has been helping the senior community for over 10 years using cutting edge and innovative integrative medicine. Specializing in chronic pain cases, specifically those that have been deemed 'hopeless' or 'untreatable', he consistently generates unparalleled results.
What was once a missing link in senior healthcare is now easily accessible to the residents of Austin and the surrounding area.
If you missed too many tee times because of pain or you've passed on a hike in the greenbelt because you're afraid of falling, it is time to call Lucas and his staff at Rosedale Acupuncture & Wellness. Center.
It's time you let your golden years BE GOLDEN.
Dr. Brown is now accepting a limited amount of new patients. In an effort to protect his patients, both current and future, he has made the difficult decision to limit the number of patients seen in his clinic. Only 10 new neuropathy patients will be accepted before the end of May 2025.
From Pasture to Plate
Aubrey and Perrine Noelke built on a life of adventure to establish Belle Vie Farm and Kitchen.
BY CARMEN GRAY
JUST INSIDE THE PAVILION
at the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller, tucked into the northeast corner, you can purchase fresh, rich duck eggs and an assortment of delicious chicken and flavorful pork products. The top-quality offerings at Belle Vie Farm and Kitchen, produced by Aubrey and Perrine Noelke, reflect a collaboration between two hardworking, adventurous people who fell in love in 2007.
It all began against the shimmering backdrop of the Mediterranean, when Aubrey, a Texan with a talent for engines and a love of the sea, was working as a boat engineer aboard a private yacht.
Perrine, a French native with a flair for cuisine and charm, happened to be managing a restaurant in Belgium when a twist of fate brought her aboard.
She was invited by the yacht’s chef to join the galley crew. Despite the language barrier between Aubrey and Perrine (he spoke little French, she barely any English), none of that mattered. Somewhere between the rolling tides and golden sunsets, their worlds collided. The moment their eyes met, something clicked. And so began their story.
QUALITY AND SUSTAINABILITY
Both open to adventure, they later found themselves backpacking through Mexico and Central
America. They even worked on small sailboats for four years in the Caribbean—with Aubrey as captain and Perrine as chef, preparing meals for guests who rented the boats.
Eventually, they wanted to start a family, so their adventures continued on land. The question was: Where would they go next?
Texas held a special appeal, as Aubrey had grown up in Austin and spent summers working on his family’s cattle ranches west of San Angelo. So they returned to Aubrey’s hometown, but being outdoorsy people, they soon found themselves volunteering at various nearby farms.
The couple explored vegetable farming at Johnson’s Backyard Garden and toured a goat dairy
farm in Texas. This inspired their next big journey together, along with starting a family: building their own farm.
Perrine’s French heritage led them to visit a chicken, rabbit and duck farm in France, and they took this idea to heart.
They bought land northeast of Elgin and started with a custombuilt kitchen—yes, a kitchen.
Perrine wanted to ensure that what she created from the farm— including French-inspired sausages and pâtés—was of premium quality. They officially launched Belle Vie Farm and Kitchen in 2014, raising ducks, chickens, geese, turkeys and pigs on their family farm. (The French part of the name translates to “good (or beautiful) life.”)
Committed to freshness and
Perrine Noelke, with her husband, Aubrey, sustainably raise ducks, chickens, geese, turkeys and pigs on their farm to create products they sell at the Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller.
MEET ME AT THE MARKET
sustainability, they use practices such as rotational grazing, and ensure all animals are pasture-raised and organically fed. They chose French white Muscovy ducks and raised only about 100 at a time to maintain quality and allow the birds to rotate across fresh pasture. The ducks are fed certified organic, GMO-free grain, and guardian geese help protect them from predators.
JOINING FORCES
Perrine can often be found inside her stall at Mueller, busily selling to a long line of devoted customers.
“Our pigs are fed well and raised well,” she says as I purchase a pork chop (just one, but large enough for my husband and me to split for dinner) on a recent visit. “No need to overcook it—you can leave it slightly pink in the middle.” And she was absolutely right. It was savory and juicy!
The couple has combined forces with another equally high-quality
local farm, Shirttail Creek, to sell their products in an urban farmstand on West Oltorf and now at their first brickand-mortar grocery shop.
The store, called Local Pastures, opened on June 12, 2024, and is located at 5501 N. Lamar Blvd., near Nervous Charlie’s Bagels. “We figured, why not get together and work our magic to create an actual shop together?”
Perrine says.
Open seven days a week, the shop offers pasture-raised meat and dairy products as well as locally sourced
honey, produce and coffee. There’s even raw milk on Wednesdays!
Perrine and Aubrey have traveled far in their adventures together and continue to explore new horizons as a business rooted in love.
To find out more about Belle Vie Farm and Kitchen, visit www.belleviefarm.com.
Writer and editor Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992.
Above: Aubrey and Perrine Noelke collaborate with Shirttail Creek farm to operate the brick-and-mortar Local Pastures shop on North Lamar Boulevard in addition to selling at the farmers’ market (right).
Piano Man
Pianist Anton Nel traveled the world as a performer and educator before finding a perfect home in Mueller.
MMUELLER AS A COMMUNITY is known for its diverse, fascinating residents with a wealth of interesting backgrounds. Whether artists, writers or musicians, talent abounds—but did you know we have a world-renowned concert pianist in our midst?
Anton Nel is an accomplished South African pianist and educator who makes his home right here in Mueller. His journey from a young boy in Johannesburg to an esteemed concert pianist and
educator is a testament to his passion and dedication to music.
Born into a musical family, with a mother who played and sang beautifully, Nel was surrounded by piano melodies from an early age. In fact, he believes he remembers hearing music before he could even speak.
By the time he turned 10, he began formal piano lessons after demonstrating an affinity for the piano by replicating pieces his mother played. Just two years
later, at 12, he began playing in concerts, and by 14 was already winning national and international competitions. Throughout his teenage years, Nel’s talent flourished.
AT HOME IN AUSTIN
In 1983, When he turned 20, Nel knew he was ready to leave South Africa and finish his studies abroad. He pursued his graduate work at the University of Cincinnati and, at the ripe old age of 23, began his
A Full Life: Worldwide recognition as a musician doesn’t stop Anton Nel from enjoying simple pleasures close to home.
career teaching at the University of Texas here in Austin.
He later held positions at the Eastman School of Music at the University of Rochester, in New York, and also served as chairman of the piano department at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
But his grand plan was always to return to the city that won his heart: Austin. In 2000, he fulfilled this dream and returned to the area, where he was appointed professor of piano and chamber music at the University of Texas. He currently also holds the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Endowed Chair in Piano and leads the Division of Keyboard Studies.
Although teaching has been a rewarding part of Nel’s career, the music has always been his passion. “As a performer, I feel my biggest assignment is to transmit great music to audiences, and I’m always happy when I hear that attendees have somehow been touched or moved by my playing,” he says. Over the years, he has played in storied concert halls around the world, but his favorites are more intimate venues such as London’s Wigmore Hall, Aspen’s Harris Concert Hall and Endler Hall in Stellenbosh, South Africa. The Jassen Auditorium—or
Musical Journey: Anton Nel’s mother, also a musician, helped launch her son’s international career, which has taken him to royal audiences (far left middle) and performances with organizations such as the San Francisco Symphony (far left bottom).
Homer Rainey Hall, as it’s sometimes called—right here in Austin is another personal favorite.
Nel has always felt at home in Austin. “I lived south of Austin for about 15 years,” he says, “but with the increase in traffic, my commute to UT became very tiresome and I realized it was time to move.”
AN IDEAL NEIGHBORHOOD
Nel still remembers a dreary Sunday afternoon 10 years ago when he was walking around Mueller and saw the semifinished condo where he now lives.
“As soon as I saw the large downstairs room, I knew I had found the music room I’ve always been looking for,” he says. “I put a deposit
down on the spot, and buying into this community is one of the smartest things I have ever done.”
The friends he has made here, the walkability to local favorite spots, the hiking and biking trails as well as the close proximity to the campus and airport have made Mueller his ideal place to live. He has even taken up pickleball, which has become a current obsession.
Nel’s love for his craft is palpable. Just ask him what his favorite composer/piece of music is, and he all but gushes. “Pianists are lucky to have an enormous amount of great music to play,” he says. “I’m at my happiest playing music from the German/Viennese Classical or Romantic periods: Mozart,
Beethoven, Schubert, Schumann, etc. I keep coming back to Beethoven, and then his fourth piano concerto, which to me is one of the most beautiful and perfect things ever created by a human!”
Reflecting on his journey, Nel feels fortunate for the opportunities he has had, and he remains committed to inspiring audiences and mentoring the next generation of musicians.
He refers to himself as “decidedly middle-aged” and embraces all that comes with it. Travel; discovering new, great places to dine; hiking; spending time with friends; and, yes, pickleball fill his free time, but his one true love is still the music. He hopes to continue his teaching and performing for many years to come.
Beyond BOOKS
A visit to Austin Central Library highlights art, design, programs and spaces that make this local gem about more than reading.
BY CARMEN GRAY
WWITH SUMMER JUST around the corner, perhaps it’s a good time to visit a cool respite that is one of our city’s crown jewels: the Austin Central Library. I’ve stopped in a few times since it opened to the public on October 28, 2017, and each time, I’ve discovered something new that makes me love it a little bit more.
Designed by Lake|Flato Architects in collaboration with Shepley Bulfinch, Austin Central Library stands as the city’s first project to achieve LEED platinum certification, awarded on July 19, 2018. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a globally recognized green-building rating system that verifies a property’s sustainability, efficiency and environmental performance.
A prime example of the library’s innovative design is a massive 700,000-gallon cistern located just across the street. This system captures rainwater from the library’s roof, channeling it through underground pipes into the cistern.
The collected rainwater—along with condensation from air conditioning
units—is then reused to irrigate the surrounding landscape and flush toilets inside the building. These sustainable strategies not only reduce the library’s dependence on municipal water, but also help preserve precious water resources in Austin’s lakes, streams and the Colorado River for local wildlife and the city’s growing population.
INVITING DESIGN
Located in the Seaholm District, the library is easily accessible after a stroll on Lady Bird Lake or before grocery shopping at Trader Joe’s.
Walking into the space, it’s hard not to be dazzled by the winding staircases that float above you, along with the iconic 37-foot-tall sculpture named “Caw” that hangs inside the open atrium.
“As Austin’s grackles are wellknown, this artwork represents an important aspect of our city,” says Dale Bridges, one of the many friendly faces you’ll see at the front desk. “Everyone sees these birds everywhere!” Artist Christian Moeller, originally from Austria, designed
the sculpture with his own deep respect for blackbirds in general.
Beyond the first floor, you’ll find many beautiful design elements of Central Texas all around— mesquite and oak woods blended with clean lines.
You’ll want to visit the rooftop garden with picturesque views of Shoal Creek and downtown Austin. If you find yourself there on a rainy day, directly inside on the top floor is an inviting lounge with gently lit lamps, comfy chairs and large windows to gaze out of between reading breaks.
Just beyond the front desk, to the right, is the gallery space. I’ve personally been in the space for book signings by local authors.
The gallery showcases local artists and rotates regularly. Guests are encouraged to peruse the art, learn about the artists and support them by following their work. The gift shop also sells books and art by local residents.
A MULTITUDE OF PROGRAMS
Programming is diverse and accessible to both locals and visitors. Many people visit simply to get tourist shots, browse the local art on display or to take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown in the rooftop reading deck.
There are so many offerings available—from a cooking club that hosts how-to sessions in the
demonstration area just below the atrium to all sorts of familyfriendly activities.
Examples of events include a Graphic Novel Book Club, Yoga Class, Coding, Read/Watch/Talk Book and Movie Club (online), Financial Preparations for Business, Club de Lectura, All Ages Storytime, Art Smart, Chess Club, Tween Code and Pajama Storytime. In addition to all of this, there’s a beautiful gift shop that is fun to check out and a relaxing café, where I purchased a delicious, hot chai latte.
Last but not least are the many books and resources available at this location. The Austin Central Library building has a total of
six floors within 200,000 square feet that house 350,000 books, 13 shared learning rooms, 140 publicuse computers and 150 self-check electronic devices.
Other offerings include the Innovation Lounge, which provides public access to a number of specialized tools such as 3D printers, Raspberry Pi computing kits, a computerized sewing machine and soldering irons, to name just a few. If you need help finding anything, there are plenty of accommodating staff members on hand to assist you on every floor.
FRIENDLY POLICIES
Back at the front desk, Bridges is letting a visitor know that the library won’t fine her for turning in an overdue item. She’s concerned as she hands in the volume. “We are
just happy you returned the book,” he tells her kindly. “Thank you so much. Is there anything else I can help you with?”
I didn’t realize this was now standard procedure. A little research reveals that on February 17, 2022, the Austin City Council adopted an ordinance eliminating fines for Austin Public Library materials returned or renewed past the due date. To learn more, check out Fine-Free Library FAQ at https://library.austintexas.gov/ finefreeFAQ.
If you don’t have the time or means to travel this summer, why not be a tourist in your own city? Check out a book, explore the artwork on display or take part in one of the many programs offered at our beautiful, state-of-the-art Central Library.
Carmen Gray has lived in Austin since 1992. She is a dual-language teacher, a published author and freelance writer, and contributing editor for Latino magazine.
Smart Start
The Primrose School brings early educational excellence to more young children with help from Texas Mutual Insurance.
WWHEN CHRISTY BLACK stepped into her role as the director of the Dallas Primrose School in 2007, she had no idea of the journey with Primrose that lay ahead. With an unwavering passion for early childhood education, she set her sights on something bigger: bringing high-quality childcare to more families.
In 2014, that vision became reality when she became a Primrose
franchise owner in Austin. Mueller became the fourth Austin location under her leadership, marking a significant milestone in the growth of her schools.
When Primrose Mueller first opened its doors, it was designed to accommodate 130 children. However, the demand for exceptional early education in the vibrant Mueller/Aldrich Street community quickly exceeded expectations.
OPPORTUNITY FOR EXPANSION
Recognizing this need, Black sought ways to expand, ensuring more families could benefit from the nurturing, high-quality environment that Primrose provides. An opportunity came through a valued partnership with Texas Mutual Insurance (TMI), a collaboration that has played a crucial role in the school’s expansion and success.
The relationship between
Representatives from Employers for Childcare Task Force (E4C) gathered to focus on the importance of early childhood care and receive a guided tour of the newly expanded Primrose School of Austin at Mueller.
Primrose and Texas Mutual began when the school was first established in the TMI building. From the outset, Texas Mutual demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting quality childcare for its employees and the surrounding community.
As Primrose Mueller’s enrollment grew, Black initially reached out to Texas Mutual to explore expansion possibilities, but at the time, no additional space was available. However, following the COVID-19 pandemic, Texas Mutual approached Primrose with an incredible opportunity—not only offering additional space but also extending a generous discount.
In return, Primrose committed to providing subsidized care for children in the Texas Rising Star program. This partnership has been instrumental in the school’s ability to expand and continue offering high-quality childcare to a diverse range of families.
ADDING NEW FEATURES
With the expansion, Primrose Mueller transformed significantly. The school’s capacity more than doubled, growing from 130 children to 280. This increase allowed Primrose to serve even more families and provide additional resources to enhance
the overall experience.
The expansion brought exciting new features, including a larger outdoor playground and the addition of an indoor playground, ensuring children could engage in active play regardless of weather conditions.
Additionally, the introduction
of the Zono sanitization system elevated hygiene standards, providing an advanced level of cleanliness for toys and classroom materials. These enhancements have created a healthier, more engaging environment for students and staff alike.
Jeanette Ward, CEO of Texas Mutual, values the relationship with Primrose
and recognizes that together they created a tremendous asset for the community.
“Access to high-quality early childhood education is a fundamental right that all families should have available within reach,” Ward says. “Children in Austin should enter school with the foundational knowledge and
skills to be curious, confident and successful learners. Our hope at Texas Mutual is to make this possible, one family at a time, through partnerships like this one with Primrose School of Austin at Mueller.”
HOLISTIC EDUCATION
Primrose Schools’ Balanced Learning approach has been the cornerstone of its educational philosophy. This method blends purposeful play with teacherguided instruction, fostering curiosity, confidence and a love of learning.
The curriculum emphasizes wholechild development, incorporating STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, math) learning, language and literacy, while also nurturing social-emotional skills, character development and physical wellness. Strong teacher-student relationships, combined with engaged family partnerships, create a supportive learning environment where every child can thrive.
Throughout this growth, one of the most surprising and rewarding aspects has been the overwhelming support from the Mueller community.
“From the start, we knew this was a great fit, but we’ve been truly amazed by how much the community values and uplifts local businesses,” says Black. “Community enthusiasm and trust have made our rapid and consistent enrollment growth even more rewarding. It’s been inspiring to see how deeply families invest in creating a strong, connected neighborhood, and we’re grateful to be a part of it.”
Mueller was chosen as a location because of strong demand for highquality childcare in the area, and the decision has proven to be a perfect fit. The partnership with Texas Mutual provided a unique opportunity to offer on-site childcare while remaining accessible to the broader community. Additionally, the school’s proximity to Dell Children’s Hospital has been a significant benefit for parents working in health care, offering them a convenient and trusted option for their children’s early education.
A STRONG PILLAR
Looking ahead, Primrose Mueller remains focused on maintaining its commitment to high-quality childcare
and education. The team continuously strives to ensure every child experiences a nurturing and engaging environment that sets the foundation for lifelong learning.
The school aims to become a lasting pillar in the Mueller community, evolving alongside families’ needs
while upholding the highest standards in early childhood education. By fostering long-term relationships and consistently improving the learning experience, Primrose hopes to leave a lasting impact on generations to come.
The expansion of Primrose Mueller is not just about increasing capacity—it is about reinforcing a commitment to the community, ensuring that every child has access to the best possible start in life. Through thoughtful partnerships, innovative learning approaches and unwavering dedication, Primrose Mueller continues to make a difference, one child at a time.
Christy Black (second from left) and staff at the Primrose School of Austin at Mueller.
Sweet as MOM
A baking blogger and photographer offers a sweet confection sure to bring smiles on Mother’s Day.
BY ALIX NEWTON
THIS MOTHER’S DAY, treat Mom to something as sweet as she is: marshmallow flower chocolate cupcakes! These rich, fudgy, chocolate cupcakes are topped with a smooth chocolate buttercream and delicate marshmallow petals, creating an edible bouquet that’s almost too pretty to eat. Whether you’re baking a batch for brunch, gifting a homemade treat or celebrating with a little indulgence, these cupcakes are the perfect way to say, “You’re the sweetest, Mom!”
✽ EDITOR’S NOTE:
At Mueller magazine, we’re always tapping residents of our extraordinary neighborhood to offer insights on our community or share their special talents. Alix Newton comes to us from the United Kingdom with a passion for baking and sharing her creations and methods with a wide-ranging audience.
We asked Newton to bestow her newfound community with recipes that speak to the moment as well as the palate. You’ll periodically see more from Newton in Mueller magazine throughout the year. Here, Newton offers a Mother’s Day recipe sure to please that special person in your life.
Marshmallow Flower Cupcakes
Makes: 12 cupcakes
Prep time: 30 minutes
Bake time: 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS
For chocolate cupcakes
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk or sour cream
For chocolate buttercream
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1½ cup butter, softened
• 1/3 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For marshmallow flowers
• 12 large marshmallows
• 12 yellow M&Ms
INSTRUCTIONS
For chocolate cupcakes
1. Preheat the oven to 356°F and line a 12-hole cupcake tin with cases.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt until well combined, then leave to one side.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together both sugars with the eggs and oil, and mix until combined well.
4. Add half the dry mixture into the wet mixture and fold it together. Add the buttermilk, then add the remaining dry mixture and fold through again until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you only want to mix until you can no longer see any flour bits.
5. Spoon or pour the mixture to fill the cupcake cases halfway. Be careful not to overfill the cases, as this could cause them to rise too high and overflow.
6. Give the cupcake tin a tap on the work surface to remove any big air bubbles, then bake in the center of the oven for 19 to 21 minutes until well risen and springy to the touch.
7. Remove from the oven and leave the cupcakes to cool in the tins for a few minutes, then remove and leave them to cool on a wire rack.
For chocolate buttercream
1. In a medium bowl, add the butter and beat it to soften a little.
2. Add the confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder gradually until it all comes together. Keep beating until it’s light and creamy. Add a splash of milk if you think it feels too stiff, and beat that through well.
To decorate
1. Fit a piping bag with an open-star piping nozzle and fill it with the chocolate buttercream. Pipe generous swirls on top of each cupcake.
2. For the petals, take a large marshmallow and use scissors to cut it into 4 evenly sized pieces.
3. Place the marshmallows onto the buttercream in a circle, then place a yellow M&M (or other yellow round candy) in the middle.
4. Repeat until all the cupcakes are decorated.
Note: The cupcakes can be stored in a cool, dry place and should keep well for up to three days.
PERSPECTIVES
Just Two Friends on a Front Porch
Poem by Helen Marak Walker, dedicated to the memory of her Mueller neighbor and dear friend Rita B. Avashia (1950-2025)
A front porch on a lovely Austin spring or autumn day. Just two friends talking about life things. Sharing sadness, laughter and emotions in between. It all came so easy. Sharing love stories of family and friends and yes, precious enduring memories. Speaking of our pride in those dear to us. Sharing stories of how we came to be.
Stories of time spent in other places, of adventures actual and imagined.
Ideas about books, yes, many books and thirsts for more to learn. Exchanging perspectives on life, designs for coping, philosophies on aging and death.
A front porch, just two friends talking about life and death things with no fears no regrets.
Helen Marak Walker and her husband, Frosty, are longtime Austin residents and have lived in Mueller since 2011. They treasure their many Mueller friendships and experiences.
PHOTO OP DARK STAR
TRICIA DANIEL, a Mueller photographer who loves to capture neighborhood happenings, snapped this photo as wildfires burned near Fredricksburg several months ago. Residual smoke found its way to Mueller and turned the sun into a hazy orb.
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