Real Estate

Why Pre-Approval Is More Important Than Ever This Spring

Spring is here, and so is the busiest season in real estate. More buyers are out looking for homes, which means more competition for you. If you want to put yourself in the best position to buy, there’s one step you can’t afford to skip, and that’s getting pre-approved for a mortgage.Some buyers think they can wait until they’ve found a home they love before talking to a lender. But in a season where homes can sell fast, that’s a risky move. Getting pre-approved before you start your search is a...

Finance + Legal Services

The Playbook for Success

Take the proactive step to develop your second life plan with GoDialRetire Article by Megan Marshall | Photography by Kelly Phillips Retirement isn’t the end of the road—it’s the start of something new. Cort and Charlie Dial, the father-son team behind GoDialRetire, help people navigate this transition with clarity and confidence. Complementing financial advisors, they guide clients in sustaining wealth rather than just accumulating it, ensuring a secure, meaningful retirement. A...

Food + Beverage

Peel, Eat, Repeat

Make this crawfish season count with the tastiest picks nearby Article by Megan Marshall | Photography by Timolina Photography Abby’s Crab Shack Grab your order of The Cajun Captain, which includes the classic combination of crawfish, sausage, potatoes, and corn, and complete the meal with one of their famous frozen margaritas. 202 Walton Way Suite 100, Cedar Park | abbyscrabshacktx.com   Juicy Claws Southeast Asia meets Louisiana at this spot known for their expertly prepared...

Shopping

Hobbyist Hot Spots

Shop local for the perfect additions to your collections Article by Megan Marshall | Photography by Mahdiar Mahmoodi Amidst the hustle of daily life, your hobbies deserve your time and attention. Whether you collect, create, or compete, prioritize the things you love. Because investing in those hobbies isn’t just about the items themselves—it’s about the stories, memories, and thrill of discovery. And by sharing your interests with fellow enthusiasts at spots run by equally passionate people...

Sports + Recreation

Moving Forward with Every Step

Invest in a complementary approach to healing with transformative hiking experiences led by nonprofit Come and Hike It Article by Megan Marshall | Photography by Come and Hike It Grief has a way of pulling you into a whirlwind of emotions that can feel impossible to navigate. But healing doesn’t have to mean isolating yourself or seeking temporary distractions. Often, the most powerful step forward is right outside. Roland “Bones” Jimenez, the founder of Come and Hike It, knows this...

Local Services

Foster New Beginnings

Create lifelong bonds of love and companionship by volunteering with Altruistic Dog Rescue Article by Megan Marshall | Photography by Altruistic Dog Rescue Today, Altruistic Dog Rescue serves as a beacon of hope for dogs without families, focusing on saving them from overcrowded shelters and dire situations. Through the organization’s efforts, every pup receives medical care, rehabilitation, and ultimately a loving home. But before there was Altruistic Dog Rescue, its founders, the Sousa...

Real Estate

Your Future, Handled with Care

Begin your next season of life with a home search or sale alongside the experts at Cultivate Realty Article by Megan Marshall | Photography by Myke Toman A stay-at-home mom turned real estate agent, Nora Wall took a leap into the industry after her family planted roots in Austin. In 1997, she officially began learning the ropes, one class and one client at a time. Her experience working with buyers and sellers, as well as her personal property investments, gave her the insight she needed to...

Real Estate

Why a Pre-Listing Inspection May Be Worth It in Today’s Market

What Is a Pre-Listing Inspection? A pre-listing inspection is essentially a professional home inspection you schedule before putting your house on the market. Just like the inspections your buyer will do after making an offer, this process identifies any issues with the condition of your house that could have an impact on the sale – like structural problems, faulty or outdated HVAC systems, or other essential repairs.While it’s a great option if you’re someone who really doesn’t like...

Shopping

The Unique Quality and Taste of Dominican Cigars

When it comes to premium cigars, the Dominican Republic has earned its place among the finest cigar-producing countries in the world. At the heart of this reputation is Tamboril, Santiago—often referred to as the “Cigar Capital of the World.” This small yet legendary town is home to some of the most skilled torcedores (cigar rollers) and tobacco artisans, producing cigars that are renowned for their impeccable quality, rich flavors, and smooth smoking experience.The Perfect Blend of Climate and...

Home + Design

Window of Opportunity

Follow Texas Window Store’s path to success in providing long-term value with expert installations Article by Megan Marshall | Photography by Texas Window Store & Myke Toman Jesse Westphal’s entry into the world of windows and doors wasn’t a typical one. With a background in digital marketing, what he knew about the trade was enough to build an effective website for his client, Texas Window Store. Getting to know more about the growth of the industry firsthand sparked a curiosity. So, when...