Knowing my hometown like I do, I’m sharing 5 fabulous, sparkly Austin things that brought brilliance to my life; I hope they’ll make your July a bit brighter.
Read a memoir
Austin-born Kathy Valentine, bassist for the Go-Go’s – the first all-female band to have a #1 album in the US – released her memoir All I Ever Wanted in March 2020. It is a frank and funny tale of what it means to have guts and glory. Kathy lives in Austin these days, and The Go-Go’s are 2021 inductees to the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame. She’s definitely got The Beat!
Don't walk - RUN
This crowd-pleasing-culinary corner located at 11th & Rosewood is a food oasis. The Paperboy offers cinnamon toast that will change your life; when on-the-go, Quickie Pickie for a tasty taco; order the Big Brekkie off Hillside Farmacy’s brunch menu; and sip adult beverages at Rosewood Chophouse for its outdoor happy hour ALL night on Thursdays.
Wear a statement piece
Local jeweler, MK Rowins, creates intricate, modern designs that feature faceted gemstones and diamonds within 14k gold fill and oxidized sterling silver + hand-knotted pearls on silk cords. The “Taylor” earrings rarely leave my lobes. Sweetwaterdesign.com.
Taste heaven
Thelma’s Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches are the yummiest treats ever because you'll taste love in every single bite. HEB stocks all 7 varieties in their freezer section. My two favs are Snickerdoodle Cookie with vanilla ice cream and Sugar Cookie with strawberry ice cream. Thelmastreats.com
Get outside and adventure
Follow the Odditree Society’s field map and hunt for peculiar trees around town. With names like Romeo & Juliet, Jay Walker, & Snake Bite, you’ll be amazed at each stop. The loop through downtown is 7.5 miles. (Odditreesociety.org to download a free map)
