🌵 Big school shifts coming to Lake Travis

There’s no shortage of guru advice this time of year on how to “have a better year.” Most of it is garbage. Some of it is fine. A tiny sliver is actually helpful.

Here’s one idea I stole from a podcast and tried immediately. It worked.

Get light.

Not spiritually. Practically.

Shed as much excess as possible, fast and without overthinking it.

Closet (5 minutes): If an item is 50/50, it goes. No debate.
Phone: Delete any app you’re unsure about. You can always re-download it.
Subscriptions: Cancel most of them. If you miss one in three days, sign back up. (They’ll probably offer you a deal.)
Advanced mode: Report your credit cards as stolen so you have to re-enter them everywhere. Brutal. Effective.

My wife even tackled the garage and kids’ toys. We earned a gold partner card from Goodwill. That’s either impressive or a cry for help.

Either way, we feel lighter. And lighter feels like a good way to start the year.

Cheers,
Nolan

Some mornings call for a detour, and Baguette et Chocolat is one of those places. This cozy French bakery draws locals early, partly because everything sells out quick. Expect buttery croissants, and pastries reminding you why simple done well matters.

The bakery is small and often busy, which is part of the charm. Employees are helpful, and the whole experience feels like a neighborhood ritual worth keeping. If you’re visiting, go early, linger if you can, and leave with more bread than you planned buying.

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 🙏

The Gist: Lake Travis ISD plans to expand its pre-K program for the 2026–27 school year, adding new classrooms at West Cypress Hills and Lakeway elementaries and more space at existing campuses. Meanwhile, Eanes ISD gathered community feedback through a fall survey to help guide budget decisions as the district works to address future shortfalls.

Why It Matters: Families could see more early learning options in Lake Travis and clearer direction on budget priorities in Eanes. These are the kinds of school decisions that ripple through households all over the area.

Thinking about winterizing but putting it off?

This post gives a quick refresher on why irrigation systems still need attention in winter, especially backflow preventers and controller settings, then gets straight to the good part.

Through Jan 16, you can get HALF OFF irrigation winterization when you sign up for a 2x or 4x irrigation maintenance plan, just $62.50 for the visit. Winter rarely waits.

📚 Story Time | Sweetwater Clubhouse | Austin | 01/08 | More
Cozy read-alouds, bookmobile fun, and easygoing family time together

🤖 Let’s Chat with ChatGPT | Library | Lakeway | 01/09 | More
Live demo, practical tips, and an approachable intro to everyday AI tools.

🕹️ Arcade | Laura’s Library | West Lake Hills | 01/10 | More
Drop-in gaming fun with Mario Kart, Smash Bros, and all-ages arcade vibes.

🐶 Therapy Dog Visit | Westbank Library | West Lake Hills | 01/11 | More
Calming canine cuddles and gentle reading-time joy for kids.

🎶 Music Jr Class | Pikopye’s Town | Lakeway | 01/14 | More
Play-based music, movement, and early learning for little ones and caregivers.

🧘 Sound Bath Meditation | Westbank Library | West Lake Hills | 01/09 | More
Soothing sound waves, deep relaxation, and a peaceful mid-morning reset.

🎸 Chris Max Band Live | LT Corner Pub | Lakeway | 01/10 | More
High-energy rock band covers, loud singalongs, and late-night, buzzing pub-shows.

🥂 Brunching for Stevie | Hops & Thyme | Lakeway | 01/10 | More
Feel-good brunch gathering with amazing food, community spirit, and heartfelt support.

🎨 Soft Watercolor Beach Scene | Austin Art Group | Steiner Ranch | 01/10 | More
Relaxed watercolor painting with artistic guidance and creative morning vibes.

🎶 Sam Baker | Rawhide Trail House Concerts | Bee Cave | 01/11 | More
Intimate, soul-stirring folk storytelling with moving vocals and heartfelt songwriting.

💎 International Gem & Jewelry Show | Palmer Events Center | Austin | 01/09-01/11 | More
Browse stunning gems, fine jewelry, and designer pieces in a vibrant marketplace.

🔥 Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live | Moody Center ATX | Austin | 01/10 | More
High-octane monster trucks, glowing effects, and jaw-dropping stunts for all ages.

🎉 David Bowie Birthday Bash! | Drinks Lounge & Records | Austin | 01/10 | More
Glam rock dance floor energy, vinyl grooves, and stylish late-night celebration.