Home + Design

Investing in home and community

How McWalters Collaborative is transforming Austin homes Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Andrea Calo In Austin’s rapidly evolving real estate market, home renovation is more than a means of updating aesthetics — it’s a strategic investment in property value, sustainability and neighborhood preservation.  With demand for character-rich housing soaring and historic homes facing redevelopment pressures, thoughtful renovations offer a way to enhance functionality while maintaining a...

Real Estate

Real estate investment 101

E-Lit Realty empowers homeowners through education Article by Julie Royce In the local real estate landscape, E-Lit Realty has emerged as a full-service firm dedicated to serving clients from various socioeconomic backgrounds.  In 2016, at the age of 21, Karina Muñoz wanted to buy a home but wasn’t quite sure how she would afford it. She had the good fortune of knowing E-Lit CEO and Founder Julie Galarraga, who encouraged her to buy rather than rent. “She walked me through the whole...

Food + Beverage

Sipping, socializing & storytelling

House Wine has a new location in South Austin Article by Julie Royce | Photography by Casey Cunningham House Wine fits right into the eclectic Bouldin Creek neighborhood off South First Street in South Austin. With its brightly painted walls and lush floral decor, this cozy wine bar has been a staple in the community since opening its doors in 2008.  Over the years, guests have celebrated birthdays, engagements and anniversaries while sipping perfectly curated glasses of wine on the patio and...

Finance + Legal Services

Where there’s a will, there’s a way

Robbins Estate Law Firm provides select pro bono services Article by Julie Royce Estate planning is often overlooked, leaving many families vulnerable when tragedy strikes. Sixty percent of Americans lack a will or estate planning documents, exposing their loved ones to prolonged and costly legal battles, according to a 2017 AARP survey. Kyle Robbins, founder of Austin-based Robbins Estate Law, is working to change that, especially for families facing sudden loss. Since founding his firm in...

Health + Wellness

Investing in longevity

Halcyon Home is reimagining elder care Article by Julie Royce As the primary caretaker of an aging or disabled loved one, worries and fears are often part of a typical day. Creating schedules around multiple doctor appointments and making sure their social, emotional and physical needs are being met become the new norm.  With the rise of an aging population comes a demand for compassionate and knowledgeable in-home care services, and Halcyon Home has risen to the challenge. Edna Bradshaw's...

Life + Culture

“Thanks for noticin’ me”

Celebrate Eeyore’s 60th birthday on April 26 at Pease Park Article by Julie Royce Austin’s beloved Eeyore's Birthday Party will celebrate its 60th annual event on April 26 at Pease District Park. This free, day-long festival has become a hallmark of the city's “Keep Austin Weird” culture, bringing together locals and visitors alike to honor the famously melancholy donkey from A.A. Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh series with a day of music, costumes and community spirit. “Eeyore’s Birthday has always...

Life + Culture

No place like home

Community First! Village provides housing and, more importantly, a community Article by Julie Royce Community First! Village in East Austin is redefining how cities address homelessness with a sustainable and compassionate model that prioritizes both housing and community support.  "I love this place. It's the first place I really called home," said resident Blair Racine, who moved to the village in 2018 after years of homelessness. "My home life when I was younger wasn't good. After bouncing...

Health + Wellness

Dust be gone

Spring cleaning tips to reduce household allergens in Austin Article by Julie Royce Spring in Austin promises not only bluebonnets and warmer temperatures but also a surge in allergens that can make life challenging for residents with sensitivities. Effective spring cleaning is essential to minimize indoor allergens and ensure a healthier living environment. Austin's unique climate contributes to a variety of allergens. According to Greater Austin Allergy, oak pollen is predominant in early...

Life + Culture

Ready for the show

Rodeo Austin has been a tradition of community impact and youth development Article by Julie Royce Since its establishment in 1938, Rodeo Austin has been a part of Central Texas culture, with its deep commitment to the community and youth development. This year, hundreds of kids as young as third grade are participating in local 4H and FFA clubs across the state. One of them is 17-year-old Savanna Elizondo of Webberville, a village in far eastern Travis County. “I got involved in 4H when I...

Travel

Spring break fun

Family-friendly day trips near Austin Article by Julie Royce Spring break is around the corner! If you’re looking to escape the SXSW madness that will soon descend on Austin, we’ve put together a list of family-friendly day trips. It’s time to load up the car with snacks, sunscreen and bug spray and head to one of these Central Texas locales.  Hamilton Pool Hamilton Pool is a hidden oasis about 40 minutes west of Austin. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning waterfall, which...