🌵 Bee Cave’s dumpling comeback is so worth it

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Austin driving is its own sport.

You’ve got the left-lane campers.
The last-second exit divers.
The person who absolutely will not let you merge, until they do, very generously, after braking.

And somehow, we all survive it. Every day.

Lately, I’ve been trying a new approach: assume everyone is doing their best. Even when it doesn’t look like it. Especially then.

It doesn’t make traffic faster. But it does make the drive home quieter. Less gripping the wheel. Less muttering under my breath.

Some days, that’s a win.

Cheers,
Nolan

Bee Cave neighbors are flocking back to A One Dumplings & Noodle Bar, which was temporarily closed but reopened in mid-December. The modern, wood-trimmed interior provides a polished backdrop for plates of crispy Peking duck and their standout chicken and cabbage dumplings.

It’s hard to pass up the Spicy Lanzhou Beef Noodles, featuring chewy handmade noodles and a rich broth. With attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s quickly settling back in as a local favorite.

More details here.

TOPS Pest Control handles the bugs without the contracts, foggers, or sketchy chemicals.

🐾 Pet-safe treatments, expert-applied
📍 Serving Austin, Bee Cave, Dripping Springs + more
💪 Covered: ants, fleas, ticks, mosquitos, fire ants, scorpions

👉 Prefer to talk? Call Jenna & Kyle at (737) 338-7540.

Thank you to our local sponsors who help make this newsletter possible 🙏

Pigtails & Crewcuts makes haircuts easier for kids and parents alike. The stylists are patient, gentle, and know how to keep little ones calm with bubbles, toys, and friendly attention.

Many families mention how relaxed their kids feel, even during first visits. Sweet keepsakes and a fun setup help turn haircuts into a positive memory everyone looks forward to.

More details here.

The Gist: Lake Travis ISD approved a selective enrollment plan for interdistrict transfers starting in the 2026–27 school year. The policy applies to seven campuses, including four elementary schools, two middle schools, and Lake Travis High School. Transfer students will need to meet academic, attendance, and discipline standards, apply annually, and provide their own transportation, with transfers at Bee Cave Middle and the high school kept extremely limited.

Why It Matters: District leaders say the move prioritizes in-district students as growth and new developments continue to reshape enrollment. It’s a careful attempt to balance growth without stretching schools too thin.

Read more here.

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Classic American songbook favorites with a warm, nostalgic, all-ages vibe.

❄️ Elsa Winter Event | SnowBo | Lakeway | 01/31 | More
A magical winter afternoon with princess fun, crafts, music, and snowy sparkle for kids.

🐶 Therapy Dog Visit | Westbank Library | Austin | 02/01 | More
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🧸 Free Play @ Laura’s | Laura’s Library | Austin | 02/05 | More
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🧠 Trivia Night | LT Corner Pub | Lakeway | 02/03 | More
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🍰 Free Cake Day | Michelle's Patisserie | Austin | 02/04 | More
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🪄 Magic for Adults | Cap City Comedy Club | Austin | 02/04-02/05 | More
Mind-bending magic and sharp comedy blended into a polished, adults-only night out.

🛋️ Furniture Warehouse New Years Sale | So So Spiffy Warehouse | Austin | 02/05-02/07 | More
Three-day warehouse sale with standout furniture deals and stylish home finds.