Emily O'Shaughnessy

Giving Back Day at P. Terry's

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | December 12, 2013

This Saturday, mark your calendars for “Giving Back Day” at P. Terry’s Burger Stand. On December 14^th, all profits from the restaurant’s seven Austin locations will be donated to the Austin American Statesman Season for Caring program.

I love this concept for several reasons. First, it’s obvious that P. Terry’s takes giving back to its community seriously. Each year, the restaurant chooses four local non-profit organizations as recipients of its “Giving Back Day.” They then designate one day each quarter to support those agencies, and all of their Austin locations work together to make a difference. Over the years P. Terry’s has donated over $310,000 to important causes in the community.

10 Lodging Options in the Lake Travis Area

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | December 10, 2013

Yes, the holidays are about family and togetherness. But sometimes, a little too much togetherness can test even the jolliest of holiday spirits. We understand that you love your extended family, but there are only so many air mattresses and hide-a-bed sofas one home can comfortably handle before the “togetherness” starts to lose its charm….

Fortunately, there are several lodging options in the Lake Travis area. There’s something for every budget and tastes, so you can make helpful suggestions and be the holiday hero once again. Or, after the relatives leave, you may be in the mood for a relaxing staycation of your own. You deserve it!

Whatever your needs, here is a list of 10 lodging options in the Lake Travis area. The list includes hotels, bed & breakfasts and high end resorts, so there’s bound to be something for everyone.

Ugly Christmas Sweater Party Ideas

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | December 6, 2013

This holiday season there’s a good chance you’ll have an excuse to don an ugly Christmas sweater. Whether you’re invited to a party or perhaps just want to celebrate National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day to humor yourself, it’s fun to break out the ugly gear. However, if “ugly” (or “tacky” – they go by both) isn’t typically your style, or you’re not sure where to start but want to be a good sport, here are some tips to get you started….

Think thrift store – Thrift stores are the perfect places to begin your search for tacky sweaters, many straight from the 80’s. They’ll be authentic, and the more obnoxious the better. Patterns, sequins, shoulder pads, cheesy phrases, whatever you can find. However, I’ve noticed that these sweaters are getting harder and harder to find at thrift and resale shops. These days ugly sweaters are all the rage, so there’s a good chance someone beat you to the punch and scooped up all the good ones. If your trip to Goodwill leaves you empty handed don’t fret – there are other options.

Borrow – Ask around and I bet one of your friends or neighbors has one lying around. Or better yet, ask a Grandma. You might want to be delicate with this, though. Don’t ask to borrow her “ugly” Christmas sweater. Maybe just mention you have a festive event coming up – then promise to have it dry-cleaned afterwards? After all, nobody wants to hurt Grandma’s feelings. Then again, your cool Grandma may be going to an ugly sweater party herself (sorry, hipsters, it’s not just you!), so she may not be willing to part with hers anyway.

Emily O'Shaughnessy

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