With summer officially upon us, there’s one sentence that every Austinite is obliged to say when meeting another Austinite: “Wow, it’s hot today!” Luckily, Austin is full of great places to cool off with some great swimming and scenic views. Continue reading for a list of 4 easy-to-access pools you definitely need to check out this summer!

1. Barton Springs. I know, I know…everyone already knows about Barton Springs, but the accessibility and the surprisingly low temperature of the water both qualify this unique Austin gem to be the first on our list! With several on-duty lifeguards and its location within the city, Barton Springs is a fantastic and easy getaway for all ages. The grounds are beautiful and well-maintained and it’s the perfect place to relax on a scorching summer day. It can get quite crowded, depending on the time of day, so arrive early to avoid the throngs of other swimmers if you’re searching for some solitude.
2. El Salido Pool. Tucked away in Northwest Austin, El Salido Pool is yet another great option for a sunny Austin excursion. This large pool is equipped with three diving boards, two basketball goals, and picnic tables scattered throughout the premises. Pool noodles and life jackets are available at this year-round pool, and you’re also welcome to bring your own food to lounge and relax with under their larger-than-life umbrellas. Part pool, part playground, and part splash park, El Salido Pool will keep you coming back for more!
3. Deep Eddy Pool. Spring-fed, chlorine-free, perfect location…sounds too good to be true! Deep Eddy Pool is yet another thriving oasis right in the middle of Austin. Swim laps, put your toes in the (very!) cold water, or use the wading entrance with your little ones. The 5-minute swim break at the top of each hour encourages swim safety, so take that opportunity to relax on the grounds after you’ve purchased a hot dog or a snow cone at their snack bar.
4. Dick Nichols Neighborhood Pool. Don’t worry, south Austin – we’re not leaving you hanging! Dick Nichols Neighborhood Pool is a fantastic option for crystal clear swimming on well-maintained grounds. With a large pool and on-duty lifeguards, check out this neighborhood pool for swimming laps or hanging out in the shallow section. Peruse their online calendar for an updated list of recreational swimming times. Swimming lessons are also available at Dick Nichols Neighborhood Pool. This pool is a great excuse to check out Austin’s unique south side!

Austin’s variety of outdoor activities makes any summer weekend the perfect weekend! Use this list to seek out a pool in your neighborhood, or venture to a new part of town to see what else is happening all over your city. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

To summer,

Crytal

In a city full of coffee lovers and coffee spots, where can you get the best cup and where can you drink it in the most style? 

Scroll through this list of the top 5 places in Austin to grab a great cup of coffee (that aren’t Starbucks) to inspire your next caffeine break.

1. Radio Coffee & Bar. Radio Coffee & Bar is a South Austin classic that prides itself on serving coffee as a work of art and craft beer from central Texas, alongside live music and local art. My recommendation is a cup of the Stumptown nitro cold brew. Plus, it’s right by some of the best tacos in the city when all the beer and coffee makes your stomach start to growl.

2. Mozart’s Coffee Roasters. Grab a latte and a danish, a seat by the Colorado river, and settle in for the afternoon. You’ll come for the in-house roasted coffee, but you’ll stay for the view. Mozart’s is a family owned Austin original, and it’s a great place to bring a friend and catch up. 

3. Bennu Coffee. Freelancers, rejoice. This is your spot for 24-hour free Wi-Fi and fair-trade coffee in a cozy indoor/outdoor setting (with locations in east and central Austin). The cold brew is not to be missed (and it’s the perfect complement to your 3 am I-have-a-deadline laptop sessions).

4. Flitch Coffee. Is there anything more Austin than coffee on the east side in a vintage trailer with outdoor seating? They serve beans from the Texas-based Evocation Coffee, Wild Gift, Onyx Lab, and Kickapoo Coffee, breakfast tacos from the family-owned Pueblo Viejo, and pastries from Luxe Sweets. Make sure you try the iced maple latte!

5. Houndstooth Coffee. Coffee nerds, this one is for you. Houndstooth Coffee has 3 locations in East Austin, North Lamar, and downtown, and they’re serving up a rotating selection of beans crafted simply and expertly. You really can’t go wrong with your order here— but I recommend opting for the Ethiopian espresso or the cappuccino. 

 

Want to grab coffee and tell me about your vision for your dream home? Hit reply and let’s talk!

 

To cold drinks and hot summers,

Crystal

As wonderful as Austin is, sometimes you just itch to get out of your city for a weekend. There are so many beautiful spots within a few hours’ drive of the city, so check out this list to start planning your next weekend getaway.

1. Fredericksburg. This charming town famous for its German heritage and wineries is only an hour and thirty minutes away from Austin, and worth every minute of the drive. You’ll spend the weekend eating delicious German food, sampling all the wines your heart desires, hiking at the Enchanted Rock State Natural Arena, and walking through the beautiful flower gardens at Wilseed Farms. Don’t forget to check out the National Museum of the Pacific War while you’re there!

2. Corpus Christi. Craving a trip to the beach but can’t quite swing a visit to the east or west coasts? Head to Corpus Christi for miles of sandy beaches. This fun seaside town is right on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. But the sand, sun, and waves aren’t all this town has to offer. You won’t want to miss Mustang Island State Park, the Texas State Aquarium, the Selena Museum, or the South Texas Botanical Gardens, either. 

3. Son’s Island. Did you know that there’s a private paradise hiding in Guadalupe River? It’s called Son’s Island, a little-known spot just a 20-minute drive from Seguin. You can go kayaking, paddleboarding, paddleboating, or biking, and there are even cabanas available to rent if you’d like a hammock, picnic table, barbecue pit, and private swimming and fishing dock.

4. Longhorn Cavern State Park. Hanging out in the sun is nice, but don’t forget all about the magic underground, too. This cavern close by the city has many claims to fame. Comanche Native Americans once used it as a council room and Confederate soldiers manufactured gunpowder inside during the civil war. During the 1920s it became a speakeasy and dance hall, and in the 1930s the Civilian Conservation Corps started making it what it is today. It’s even said that Sam Bass, an Old West outlaw, hid his stolen fortune somewhere inside. Plus, the cavern has some truly amazing formations!

 

Isn’t it nice to have such an amazing place to return to after a weekend or a week’s vacation away? If you’re thinking about moving to a new home in the Austin area, hit reply and let’s chat about how I can help.

 

To summer,

Crystal

We’re in full swing of things here in Austin. The kids are finishing up school and it’s almost officially summer. If you’re looking for some fresh, fun things to do with your kids this June, this email is for you!

1. Nature Nights. Head to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center every Thursday night this summer from 6-9 pm for Nature Nights. Nature Nights are a free, family-friendly exploration of local plants, animals, and ecology. There are hikes, nature crafts for kids of all ages, and interactive presentations. It’s a great way to get outdoors and connect with the natural environment of central Texas!

2. Fairy Tea Party. You don’t want to miss this one! Bring your kids (and maybe their friends, too) in their fairy costumes for a magical afternoon of free tea and cookies, portraits in the fairy photo booth, face painting, raffles and more at Terra Toys. 

3. Father’s Day Storytime. If you have young kids, head to the BookPeople store in Austin on Saturday, June 16th at 10:30 am to celebrate Father’s Day with them! At this special story time event, kids will hear Dad and the Dinosaur and other Father’s Day reads. Plus, kids will get to make cards for their dads!     

4. Austin Ice Cream Festival. Need I say more? Head to the Austin Ice Cream Festival at Fiesta Gardens on the 23rd for tons of sweet, frozen treats along the beautiful Lady Bird Lake. The daytime, kid-friendly fun is from 10 am to 3 pm, featuring ice cream (of course), contests, fun activities, live entertainment, local food trucks and more.

5. Incredibles 2 Family Party. Loved The Incredibles? Alamo Drafthouse is hosting a family party on Saturday the 16th at 9:00 am to celebrate the return of everyone’s favorite superhero family: the Incredibles. You’ll get to watch the film, play themed games, make superhero masks, and hone your superhero skills. Get your tickets here. 

 

Like always, there’s no shortage of fun activities to get into this summer in Austin. And of course, there are always those wonderful lazy afternoons at home by the pool that make summer so special. 

If you’re ready to move to a new home in the Austin area, hit reply to this email and let me know! I’d love to help you find the home that fits you just right.

 

To summer,

Crystal

What’s a home without the humans (and animals) you love in it? If you’re thinking about getting a pet for your family, check out this list before you go for the traditional cat or dog. One of these uncommon pets might catch your eye! 

1. Bird. Looking for a pet that will keep your kids occupied for hours? Birds love learning games and tricks, and they require a lot of mental stimulation to thrive. Opt for a parrot if you really want to get crazy!

2. Turtle. Turtles are said to have highly individualized, unique personalities. They’re the perfect pet for you if you travel a lot or have a lot of after-school activities that keep you out and about.

3. Iguana. Okay, hear me out. Iguanas can actually be quite sweet and they even recognize people by voice, sight, and smell. They require a big enclosure and humidity, so you’ll need to have the right facilities for them.

4. Goat. You’ve heard of goat yoga, right? Make your own in your very own backyard with your very own goat! Goats form strong bonds with people and other animals and are very social. If you have a bit of land and want to bond with a sweet farm animal, a goat is your best bet!

5. Chinchilla. Chinchillas are sweet, cuddly, and bond to their families quickly. They need to be cared for gently, as they’re very fragile and sensitive, so they’re not your best bet if you have rough and rowdy children.

6. Chicken. Chickens are smart animals with varying personalities who easily form connections with their human families. If you spend a lot of time in the yard, have young kids (chickens are great with children!), and have a big enough enclosure for them, consider bringing one or two of these guys home!

7. Rabbit. Rabbits are sweet, quiet pets who sleep a lot. They have sensitive digestion and need a proper diet, so make sure you do your research. If you’re looking for a pet that won’t be too noisy or hard to take care of, opt for a rabbit.

8. Rat. Yes, rats have a reputation for being gross. But actually, they’re fun, playful animals (who knew, right?). They’re pretty easy to take care of, and they’re less commitment than a cat or a dog.

 

Having a pet is even better if you’re living in your dream home. Hit reply and let’s talk about how I can help you with that!

 

Cheers,

Crystal

We’re in the thick of spring and boy, does it feel good.

Nothing feels better these days than laying out by the pool, taking a dip, or barbecuing Texas-style on the patio with friends and family.

That’s why I’m sharing a few tips today to help you spruce up your outdoor pool and patio space for all the use it’s going to get in the coming months.

Enjoy!

1. Add a hammock. Your backyard isn’t just for partying, it’s also for relaxing! String up a hammock under a tree to make sure there are plenty of outdoor naps in your future. 

2. Glow-in-the-dark planters. I love this idea! Create more light for nighttime by coating your poolside planters with glow-in-the-dark paint. They’re fun and unique, and they look much more stylish than normal lights.

3. Add curtains to your patio space. It creates more intimacy and shade, and it’s an opportunity for you to get creative! Don’t be afraid to play with bold colors and patterns to accent your space.

4. Change your patio furniture cushions. This simple shift makes your patio furniture feel fresh and new. Get creative by painting your own cushions, or simply head to the store and pick out a new pattern that calls to you.

5. DIY your own outdoor planter. Showcase your fresh new plants in this modern DIY outdoor planter. All you need are 12” cinder blocks and liquid nails. Option to get paint, too, and give them a bright makeover!

6. Repaint your back door. If you feel like getting crazy, you can repaint your front door, too! Simply updating the door with a fresh coat of paint helps set the wood, protect it from elements, and upgrade your backyard space. 

Hit reply and let me know which one of these tips you’ll be trying. And if you’re thinking about moving to a new place within the Austin area with a more ideal outdoor space, let me know. I’d love to help you find your dream home!

 

To summer,

Crystal

One of the best things about living in Austin is all the many unique, local events happening at any given time. Especially during springtime, this city seems to just come alive!

Scroll down to look through some of the fun, unique events happening in Austin this spring. Then grab your family and friends and get out there!

1. Goodnight Moon. This iconic children’s book (I know we all know it!) is presented as a lively musical adaptation at Austin’s ZACH theater through May 27th. Kids of all ages will love it! 

2. Weird Homes Tour. Keeping Austin weird is no joke. Get inspired by “the strange, the kooky, the odd and the unexpected parts of our world” by touring the most creative homes in Austin and meeting their unique owners.

3. Austin Food + Wine Festival. You may need to find a babysitter for this one, but it will be worth it. There will be top chefs, sommeliers and winemakers from across the country and of course, from Austin’s own food and wine scene. This three day event, also featuring live musical performances, is unlike any other!

4. Pecan Street Spring Arts Festival. The oldest and largest art festival in Central Texas has something for all ages. Think musicians, food vendors, artists, crafts, and more. Learn more here.

5. The Austin Short Short Fiction Festival. This festival at the Elisabet Ney Museum showcases over 15 local authors as they read their best 1000 word fiction piece aloud. There will also be food trucks, face-painting, literary booths, and other family-friendly activities!

 

Every time I write these newsletters for you I’m reminded of what an incredible city Austin is. It’s no wonder so many people are moving here! If you know someone who wants to move to Austin, or you’re thinking about moving to a new home in the area, hit reply and let’s talk! I think I might be able to help you find exactly what you’re looking for.

 

To Austin,

Crystal

We live on such a beautiful, incredible planet, don’t we?

It’s easy to be grateful for it on Earth Day…and then not actually do anything to help this beautiful planet after the day passes.

That’s why I’m sharing some tips for going green in your home and giving back to the planet today.

1. Ask your power company about purchasing green power. Think solar, geothermal, biomass and wind turbine instead of fossil fuels.

2. Replace your incandescent light bulbs with CFLs. Try switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs to save energy. They come in all shapes, types, and sizes, so don’t feel like you need to use the ones with a white glare or the curly bulbs. 

3. Shop local. You live in Austin so you’re probably already doing this, but I had to add it anyway! When you shop local, you not only support the local economy and small business owners but local businesses are often much more eco-friendly than the big box stores mass-producing plastics in China.

This applies to food, too. Try the farmer’s market instead of the supermarket to get your favorite local fresh fruits and vegetables. They don’t travel hundreds or even thousands of miles to get to you, saving so much energy.

4. Ditch plastic. Speaking of plastic, where can you ditch single-use plastics in your home and diet? Think straws in your morning smoothie, food packaging, water bottles, and more.

5. Turn it off. When you’re not using them, turn your lights and appliances off. And teach your kids to do the same! Remember, when your appliances are running, they use energy, cost money, and create carbon dioxide from their energy use.

 

What ways do you try to stay green? Hit reply and share! And if you’re looking to move into a newer, more energy efficient home, let me know. I think I can help you out!

 

To going green,

Crystal

Now that it’s spring, everyone seems to be itching for fun, low-cost or free things to do right now since it’s been so nice.

I certainly have been!

If you have been too, you’re in luck because I’ve put together a list for you. Get outside the house, breathe in that fresh spring air, and enjoy this beautiful Austin spring!

1. Mayfield Park. Bring a picnic basket and a bottle of wine, and spend a relaxing afternoon with the beautiful peacocks at this beautiful gem in central Austin. There are walking trails, tranquil gardens, a picnic area, and of course— the peacocks! 

2. Free Kid’s Music. Bring the kids to brunch at Cherrywood Coffeehouse for free kid’s music on Sunday mornings at 10 am! They’ll be entertained, and you’ll be free to enjoy the breakfast tacos (I love the Luna Taco), mimosas, and coffee.

3. Austin Urban Music Festival. Love R&B and soul music? This festival at Lady Bird Lake is where you need to be on on the 30th and 31st of March.

4. Capitol 10K. If spring has you itching to lace up your sneakers, sign up for Texas’ largest 10K race and one of the top runs. Beginners and serious runners alike will have a great time, plus this race supports the Austin Parks Foundation!  

5. Secret Beach. You may not know this, but Secret Beach is much more fun in the spring than it is in the summer. It’s less crowded, and you won’t get heatstroke from the lack of shade. Bring a picnic (are you noticing a theme here?), go wading, and enjoy yourself in the sun. It’s kid-friendly, too, and there’s a playground nearby so bring the kids along if you’d like.

And remember, if moving is on your spring to-do list, I’m here to help! Just hit reply and let’s talk about how I can help you find your dream home.

 

Happy spring,

Crystal

Happy spring, y’all!

It’s March and I couldn’t be happier. It may not be too cold in Austin in the winter, but there’s still something about spring that makes you feel like a new beginning.

In that spirit, I’ll be sharing a few spring cleaning tips for your home and a bonus spring cleaning DIY project to help you get in the springtime mood.

1. Dust the less obvious items. Of course, you regularly dust your bookshelf. But what about your lampshades, curtains, and drapes? They accumulate a lot of dust and grit, and rarely get cleaned. Toss your drapes and curtains in your dryer for 10-15 minutes on the “air-only” cycle, and take a good old duster (or lint roller) to your lampshade.

2. Clean the refrigerator with this powerful combo. The bubbles of soda water and the abrasiveness of salt combine to make a great cleaner for your fridge. Sure to eradicate any sticky build-up!

3. Clean your screens with a scrap of carpeting. This tip comes from HGTV, and you know those people know what they’re doing. The carpet scrap makes a powerful brush that removes all the dirt from your screens. Who knew?!

If you love to DIY, try making your own essential oil air freshener to spritz around your home or car after you do your spring deep clean. Try one of the options below or get creative and mix your own! Just make sure you mix them in a glass spray jar, not a plastic one.

Simple peppermint spray. 

•    1 cup of water 

•    10-15 drops of peppermint oil

Tea tree, eucalyptus, and lemon spray. 

•    1 cup of water 

•    7 drops of tea tree oil

•    7 drops of eucalyptus oil

•    7 drops of lemon oil

This is a great project to get kids (who are old enough to not hurt themselves by touching their eyes or eating the oils!) to get involved with, too. Get creative, and have fun!

And if a spring move is on your to-do list, just hit reply. I think I can probably help you out with that!

 

To spring,

Crystal