Think you’re going to miss out on summer fun? Fear not—Austin has plenty of exciting activities and attractions to enjoy as the season winds down. Known for its vibrant music scene, lush green spaces, mouthwatering dining options, and vibrant nightlife, Austin stands out as a top destination in Texas. Whether you're a local or just visiting the “Live Music Capital of the World,” our guide to Austin's summer activities will help you squeeze every last drop of enjoyment out of the season.

 

Cool Off in Hamilton Pool Preserve

Escape the sweltering summer heat with a visit to Hamilton Pool Preserve, a natural gem located just outside Dripping Springs:

  • Natural Beauty: This picturesque swimming hole features a stunning 50-foot waterfall…

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As summer winds down, there's no better way to savor the season's final days than by firing up the grill and enjoying a mouthwatering barbecue with friends and family. While delicious recipes and flavors are essential, mastering the right grilling techniques is what truly elevates your BBQ game. Here are some updated grilling tips to ensure your feast is nothing short of spectacular!

Preheat the Grill

Preheating your grill is a crucial step that sets the stage for successful grilling. This process ensures that your grill reaches the right temperature, which is essential for proper searing and even cooking. It also helps kill any lingering bacteria on the grill grates and makes it easier to clean off any food remnants from previous uses.

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The battle for the best smart speakers for homes is tough; with recent developments between Google Home vs. Amazon Echo, it might be a challenge in choosing which is better for your home. In this blog, we’ll lay out a comparison guide between Google Home and Amazon Echo, also known as Amazon Alexa, to help you figure out which is best for your home, needs, and budget!

Thanks to technology, artificial intelligence can now transform your home. Both smart speakers are booming in the market. Obviously, it does make it easier and convenient for consumers to have these gadgets at home. From news, weather, conversion, facts, controlling the lights and devices in your home, and more; everything is just a “Hey Google...” or “Alexa...” away with these…

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July. Whew. Where do I start?

Our Team is Growing

First off, our team is growing! We added Morgan and Emily to our team in the last few weeks. You made that possible (and necessary) by being awesome clients and trusting me to help your friends and family too. So thank you!

In the last few months, Emma and I found ourselves in too many situations where we needed to be in two important places as once. We were having conversations like this... "Okay, you're writing up the offer for Jane and John... I'm going to write up the offer for Bob... so... who is going to show that house to James right now because the offer deadline for that is tonight and he needs to get in there."

The first few times this happened, it was exhilarating. Look at me, I'm…

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Are you visiting Austin for a business trip, seeing a friend, or planning on a vacation in ATX? From vibrant music scenes to mouthwatering culinary delights, Austin offers a blend of culture, history, and innovation that leaves an indelible mark on all who visit.

Here are things to expect when visiting Austin, Texas! If you are not sure where to begin, let us lead you the way to the quirky, hip, and beautiful city of Austin!

Music

live music in texas

 

Austin's claim to fame as the "Live Music Capital of the World" is well-deserved. Its vibrant music scene caters to all tastes, from blues and rock to country and indie. The heart of this musical prowess lies on Sixth Street, where iconic venues showcase both local talents and international sensations. The…

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Got plans for summer with your family? If not yet, think about this, what’s the best way to beat the heat in Austin? Take a cold drink, make use of the AC, or have some fun and cool down by taking a dip or swimming in these spots within Austin! We have listed 10 Best Family Swimming Spots in Austin, Texas. Check out our list and see if you find a swimming spot near you!

 

1. Barton Springs

One of the most popular swimming spots in Austin is Barton Springs located within the grounds of Zilker Park. Aside from the beautiful houses within the area also lies the recreational outdoor swimming pool filled with water from the Main Barton Spring which is the fourth largest spring in Texas. The temperature hovers between around 68°F to 74°F. Not just…

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My forced digital detox

June sent me several blessings in disguise in the form of tech trouble.

First, I dropped my phone in the pool. While the newer iPhones are water-resistant, that doesn’t apply if you drop them, frequently, as I do. So after several days in rice, I accepted that my phone was no more, and filed an insurance claim for a new one.

All told, I spent about 4 days phone-less, and I have to say I have not been that relaxed in years.

This section got way too long, but I still think the content is worthwhile for anyone who is interested in how to live your life with less screen time. So if you're interested, read on here. 

Getting Zen in the Airport

I started this newsletter from the Austin airport when I wasn't sure if we'd…

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June sent me several blessings in disguise in the form of tech trouble.

First, I dropped my phone in the pool. While the newer iPhones are water-resistant, that doesn’t apply if you drop them, frequently, as I do. So after several days in rice, I accepted that my phone was no more, and filed an insurance claim for a new one.

All told, I spent about 4 days phoneless, and I have to say I have not been that relaxed in years.

Every time I started to think “Maybe I should check and see if I have any texts/emails/social media messages...” I would realize I couldn’t, and feel a wave of relief. “Whatever might be waiting there,” I thought, “will just have to wait.”

I sent all of my clients an email at the beginning of my cell phone detox letting them…

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A few years ago, I got a secondary cell phone number. My primary cell is a 973 area code, which is North Jersey. I went onto my husband's family plan about a decade ago, and decided to keep the number even after we moved out of North Jersey and to Austin, Texas.

As a salesperson who makes lots of outgoing calls, I found that my North Jersey area code confused the heck out of everyone.

I'd get this: "So... I almost didn't answer because of your area code. Are you actually in Austin, or... what??"

I figured it might be hurting my answer rate, so I got a 512 number, an Austin area code, to see if my answer rate would go up.

What I didn't bargain for was that the number was recycled from a ne'er-do-well. His name was Rufus.

Soon after getting…

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matt fajkus interior design austin

Matt Fajkus Architecture

MF Architecture is an award-winning, licensed architecture office that welcomes residential and commercial projects, both small and large. The brilliant mind behind designing some of the best Austin homes and commercial spaces in Austin is Matt Fakjus.

Matt, a native of Austin, holds a Master in Architecture from Havard University Graduate School of Design where he completed his thesis work with Pritzker Prize-winning architect Rafael Moneo. In 2010, Matt established MF Architecture and achieved significant experience in architectural practice. He worked in numerous high-profile, international large-scale projects, as well as small-scaled award-winning projects. He was then awarded two AIA National Emerging…

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