Emily O'Shaughnessy

Go Fly A Kite: Zilker Kite Festival on March 2

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | February 24, 2014

This week, if someone tells you to “go fly a kite” don’t be offended. It’s probably an invitation to the 86^th annual Zilker Kite Festival. This Sunday, March 2^nd, thousands of Austinites will make their way to Zilker Park’s great lawn for the family-friendly event.

The Zilker Kite Festival, always held on the first Sunday of March, is the longest continuously running kite festival in the United States. For many, the festival is a tradition and marks the start of spring in Austin. It’s free and fun for all ages.

Play For All Abilities Park: Not Your Typical Neighborhood Park

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | February 21, 2014

Finally we’re getting a touch of spring, and this weather has us wanting to be outside as much as possible. My family loves to explore different parks, and one of our favorites is the Play For All Abilities Park.

It’s a little ways from the Lake Travis area, but if your kids want to try out a new park and you’re up for the drive to Round Rock, it’s absolutely worth the trip. It’s not your typical neighborhood park—this place is different and, as the name suggests, truly has something for children of all abilities.

The Play For All Abilities Park is a place where kids can explore in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. It was carefully designed to encourage children to have fun, learn and play.

Runners: Get Registered to Run for a Purpose!

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | February 19, 2014

The third annual Run for a Purpose, which includes a 5K as well as a KidsK for children 10 and under, takes place in Lakeway on Sunday, March 2^nd.

Run for a Purpose provides an opportunity for lung cancer advocates, survivors, family, friends and the community to come together to raise awareness and desperately needed funds for lung cancer research.

The day kicks off early, with the KidsK at 8am followed by the 5K at 8:30 (for registration info click here). Volunteers from Lake Travis High School HOSA department will supervise kids activities such as face painting, temporary tattoos and art projects.

Jack Allen's Kitchen: Oak Hill or Round Rock … it's worth the drive

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | February 14, 2014

Last weekend my husband had a birthday and he got to pick the restaurant. No surprise, he opted for Jack Allen’s Kitchen in Oak Hill. We both love that place and visit any chance we get. If you’ve never been I highly recommend it. Jack Allen’s has plenty of good things going for it.

First off, the food is delicious and locally sourced. Their tagline “Local in Source. Texan in Spirit” says a lot. Jack Allen’s gets most of its ingredients from farms right here in the state. They work hard to build relationships with and support local purveyors, and their commitment to fresh ingredients makes a difference. The dishes are interesting, delicious and not the same old, same old stuff you find everywhere. Each evening they offer a special in addition to their regular menu. They also have plenty of local wines and spirits, and start each meal with a small, complimentary appetizer of pimiento cheese and flatbread crackers. Tasty stuff.

Lake Travis Area Parks Guide: Lakeway City Park

Written by Emily O'Shaughnessy | February 12, 2014

The Lake Travis area is blessed with many wonderful outdoor spaces, and Lakeway City Park is one of my favorites. At 64 acres it’s a huge area with plenty of options for all ages and interests.

My favorite thing about Lakeway City Park is the large paved path that loops around the park. Because it’s away from busy streets and usually not too crowded it was perfect when my daughters first learned to ride their bikes. They could practice wobbling while I jogged alongside. It’s a scenic path, and at any time you’ll likely see joggers, walkers, pets and families enjoying the sights along the 1+ mile loop.

Emily O'Shaughnessy

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