Dripping with Kids

Tag: momoffour

  • Top Picks of the Week: Best Christmas Pageant, Camp of the Hills, Family-Friendly Bingo, & Geocaching

    Top Picks of the Week: Best Christmas Pageant, Camp of the Hills, Family-Friendly Bingo, & Geocaching

    Dripping with Kids Four Faves from This Week: Nov 17th – 23rd

    This past week included travel to other Texas towns, a lot of outside time in beautiful weather, and a book celebration. Join us as we recap our highlights and hopefully inspire your own next adventure in this beautiful region of Texas (and beyond)!

    What topped our list this week…

    1. Book Celebration: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

    After reading the book last week, we went to see the new movie and enjoyed every minute of it! This might be the first time I’ve enjoyed a movie over the book it was based on. I highly recommend taking your kids to this wholesome, nostalgic holiday film. We went on Tuesday for $5 movie day at EVO. Pro tip: call the theater to book tickets in advance and avoid online fees.

    Afterward, we spent hours at the park next to the Belterra Rec Center. We brought a few props, robes, and towels, so all of the kids could act out their own pageant together.

    2. Field Day Fun at Camp of the Hills

    Camp of the Hills is a fun and special place in Marble Falls. It’s a ministry that offers outdoor education and summer camp experiences to children who can’t usually afford it. When the staff isn’t managing summer camps or weekend retreats, they host field trips, allowing kids to participate in some of their camp activities, such as low ropes, archery, camping, foraging, and natural crafts. The money raised during field trips goes toward scholarship funds for future campers.

    This past week, we were able to participate in a field day at Camp of the Hills. The kids did relay races, played tug of war, and tossed water balloons. Reach out to Camp of the Hills if you need a field trip option or a location for a kid-friendly event.

    3. Geocaching: Making and Hiding Our Own Cache

    About a year ago, my kids became interested in geocaching. They fell in love with hunting for treasure and recording their team name on the tiny paper inside each cache they found. After realizing that many of the caches didn’t actually hold little treasures or hadn’t been maintained, they decided to create their own caches, full of mini toys, to hide in our neighborhood and town. We haven’t uploaded the locations to the app yet, but we’ll be sure to share when we do!

    If you’re looking to get started with geocaching, a few of our favorite treasure-hunting spots are Founders Park, DS Ranch Park, Jacob’s Well, and any state park.

    4. Bingo!

    An absolute fave for our family is playing Bingo together, and the best option we’ve found nearby is Friday night Bingo at the Wimberley VFW Hall. Doors open at 6:30 pm. There are 3 sets of games (5 per round) at 7, 8, and 9 pm with big cash prizes. Each round costs $5, but be sure to have a few extra dollars on hand to buy additional cards for specific games. No outside food is allowed, but it’s BYOB.

    That’s a wrap on this week’s adventures! What made your week unforgettable? Share below!

  • Where to Have a Birthday Party in Dripping Springs

    Where to Have a Birthday Party in Dripping Springs

    Check out these unique and budget-friendly options for a birthday in Dripping Springs, TX

    As much as I don’t want to admit it, I’ve thrown some big (and expensive) birthday parties for my kids. I told my older ones that the birthday party cut-off age was 10, but they seem to continue for years after that anyway. The number of attendees gets smaller, but the activities get more expensive. It can be difficult to come up with new, creative options and try to stay within a budget for birthday parties.

    After researching and planning multiple parties over the years for my four children and helping with others, I’ve created a list of locations that would be fabulous and somewhat affordable options for a birthday party in Dripping Springs, Texas (or nearby in the Hill Country). These are listed in no particular order, and a few are marked with an * because they are on the more expensive side.

    *Costs MORE than $15/child

    We hope you can find your next birthday party location and ideas from this list.

    Birthday Party Locations in Dripping Springs

    • Founders Memorial Park or Pool – It’s first come, first served for free at the pavilion or go online to reserve it.
    • Sports and Rec Park – Snag a couple picnic tables and play your kid’s favorite sport for free.
    • The Pound House – Email to inquire. Parties are customized based on interest and availability of volunteers.
    • Hamilton Pool Vineyard and Farm – Email to inquire. You can get a tour and let kids practice being a farm hand.
    • Dreamland – Book online for mini golf, playground fun, splash pad, and pizza.
    • *The Shabby Wick – Reach out to plan a crafting party or candle-making.
    • Local Brewery – Call or email to reserve tables and ask about bringing in food or cake. Most have playgrounds and fields for open play.
    • Route 12 Filling Station – Call or email to inquire. Kids can enjoy the splash pad as well as the shaded playground next door at One Shot Distilling.
    • Pedernales Falls State Park – Make a group rez in advance. Sometimes the rangers are available to put together an educational program for your group.
    • *EVO Movie Theater and Arcade – Far from free but includes two kid favorites: movies and video games.
    • La Paloma Dining and Events – Call or email to reserve tables. The party-goers can munch on chips and queso, play mini golf, build sand castles, swing to their hearts’ content, and practice skits on stage.
    • Hat Creek – Reserve tables in advance. No extra charge for a party. Just order food and enjoy the playground.
    • Verde’s Mexican Parilla – Make a reservation for patio tables. Let kids play out back in the field and on the playground, while enjoying a casual dinner together on the covered patio.
    • Private Pool through Swimply – Use someone’s beautiful pool and backyard to throw an epic swim party. Price usually includes up to 20 guests.

    Birthday Party Locations NEAR Dripping Springs

    • Camp Ben for Fishing and Water Play – Snag some tables or an open pavilion for free. Bring fishing nets and poles (for catch and release).
    • Bee Cave Central Park – First come, first served on shaded tables. There are 2 playground areas to choose from and basketball courts as well.
    • *Hill Country Indoor – Full service parties with rock climbing, indoor play area, and sports.
    • *Urban Air – It isn’t cheap, but it’ll reduce your work load and wear the kids out.
    • *The Art Garage – Customized art parties
    • *Austin Zoo – Tour the zoo and then celebrate in a private party area.
    • *High Five – Several birthday options, including axe throwing, bowling, laser tag, and arcade
    • Shady Llama – Scroll down on linked site to see party guidelines. There are 2 cute playgrounds, hammocks, and lawn games for the kids.
    • VFW Bingo in Wimberley – Just show up at 6:30 pm and grab a table for your group. Buy cards and concessions for each person. No outside food allowed but BYOB. Kids can win $$ too.
    • Cypress Falls Wimberley – Bring your own tubes and a birthday picnic. Outside food is allowed but not alcohol (bar onsite). Pay for each person and sign a waiver.
    • Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – Book a group visit or self-guided field trip. Outside food is allowed.
    • Cidercade – Reserve tables in advance and let kids play video games to their hearts’ content.

    Birthday Party Locations in The Hill Country

    • Putters and Gutters (Marble Falls) – Bowling and mini golf at an affordable price
    • Sweet Berry Farm (Marble Falls) – Book online. Choose which activities you want to include for your party. Shaded picnic tables are plentiful and free, and you can bring in all your own food.
    • LBJ State Park (Johnson City) – Free entry and outside food allowed. Call ahead to schedule a farm tour. Snag picnic tables behind the farm before tour starts.
    • Children’s Park (San Marcos) – This is one of the cutest parks in Texas. Go early to set up at one of the few picnic tables. Add on a cold swim or fishing in the river at Rio Vista Park next door.
    • *Animal World and Snake Farm (San Marcos) – Book in advance, especially in the spring. You can do a self-guided tour to see all of the animals, then add on gem mining and animal encounters for your group.
    • Landa Park (New Braunfels) – This park has it all: mini train, mini golf, multiple playgrounds, and a water park (summer only).
    • McKenna Children’s Museum (New Braunfels) – This is a great, affordable option mostly for children 7 and under. They could play here all day.
    • *Johnson City Science Mill – Reach out in advance to plan activities and reserve private room for your group.

    Did I miss anything? Share with us your favorite birthday party location thus far and any others we may have left off the list. If you’re looking for additional restaurant ideas to host a gathering during the HOT summer and fall months, check out this list.

    Happy birthday planning!

  • Find your Mom Tribe

    Find your Mom Tribe

    The Best Options for Mom Connections in Dripping Springs and South Austin

    When I first moved to Dripping Springs, I was hugely pregnant with my 4th child. Wes and I had decided that I would finally transition to being a stay-at-home mom after 10 years into my parenting gig. I was excited and grateful for the change, but it was really hard for me to give up my tutoring business and to leave behind the growing occupational therapy practice my mom and I had developed together.

    My identity as “Mom” always took precedence over my work roles, but those other parts of my life had become really important to my identity as well. I just had no idea how important until I started looking around at my new neighbors and friends, who were living the busy working-mom life I had previously taken pride in. 


    I remember what my prayers were like back then. I prayed that I would learn to love being a stay-at-home mom. I prayed that God would give me the strength and reminders not to compare myself to other women. I prayed that we had made the right decision and continually asked whether I had followed the path God truly wanted for me. 

    While struggling with this internal conflict, I found an answer. It came to me a few months after having baby #4 through a random mom I met at a park while I was pushing my toddler on a swing. She suggested a moms’ group that met at a nearby church. She shared how much she loved it and that she couldn’t wait for it to start up again. I registered for her MOPS group the next day.

    God knew I needed those ladies in my life at that time. They met me where I was in my stage of motherhood. We shared struggles, joys, utter failures, and parenting wins. Those women embraced motherhood for what it is… a true calling from God that requires a strength in faith and a loving community to do it well.

    Soon enough, I came to genuinely enjoy the slower-paced life I led at home with my children and started recognizing how fleeting this special time is. I gained a new perspective on the SAHM role, especially how challenging yet truly rewarding it can be. I came to a place of immense pride and gratitude when announcing my *new* role and responsibilities. I also found contentment like I’d never previously felt. 

    One of the lovely mentor moms in my MOPS group shared a favorite piece of scripture with me soon after I joined the leadership team:


    “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4

    When I grew in faith through my new role and relationships, I not only started to recognize new opportunities to serve others, but more importantly, I came to realize that quality time with my young family was truly my greatest joy.

    It all led me to starting this blog; I was perfectly ok with not making an income yet making a contribution to our community. It became my creative outlet, and even if there was just one reader, I was thrilled to reach that person, who was likely another local mom looking to find ways to make special memories with her children.

    I’ve now “graduated” out of MOPS, but I have another group of faithful women and deep friendships through my homeschool co-op. We educate our children together; we spend countless hours in nature; we pray for each other; and we worship together, involving our kids in our faith journeys.

    I’ve recognized that finding a mom tribe, even if it changes as my children and I get older, is so important to my well-being. To have several women who care for me and my family is undoubtedly one of the greatest blessings in my life. When a mom feels supported and loved, she serves her family more patiently, faithfully, and joyfully.

    If you’re still searching for a mom tribe to share your highs and lows with, reach out to one or more of the options below. Your people are here, and they can’t wait to meet you.

    For Moms of Littles:

    • Motherhood and Community (MAC): Meets at Austin Oaks Church on Friday mornings. MAC is formerly a MOPS group that primarily includes moms of children under age 6. Childcare is available. There is now a sub-group for moms of older children. Church membership or attendance is not required.
    • Moms of Minis: Meets at multiple Austin Ridge Campuses (Dripping Springs, Bee Cave, Southwest Austin) on Mondays or Thursdays, depending on the campus. MOMs serves mothers with children from birth through Kinder. Childcare is available. Church membership or attendance is not required.
    • MOPS (now MomCo): Meets at various church locations a few weekdays per month. Some groups serve moms of preschoolers, but several campuses offer options for moms with older children. Childcare for under age 6 is usually available. Church membership or attendance is not required.
    • Library Story Time Groups: If you attend story time on the same day each week, you will likely see many of the same moms over and over. So, even though it is not a group that moms join, it’s a regular meet-up with potential friends who have kids the same age as yours. If Dripping Springs isn’t your closest library, check out the options at Bee Cave, Lake Travis, Wimberley, Westbank Libraries, and Hampton Branch.

    For the Homeschooling Moms:

    • Classical Conversations Co-Op: These groups truly live a life of community, coming together to do lessons at least once per week and meeting up on other days for field trips, playdates, moms’ nights out, and book clubs. There are two groups in Dripping Springs, one in Buda, and another in South Austin.
    • The Orchard Homeschool: This one-day-per-week drop-off program inspired by Charlotte Mason allows for moms to take a break but also for the families to spend time together on the non-“school” days.
    • Dripping Springs Homeschool Explorers: This secular homeschool co-op meets very often, usually at outdoor locations, and also does family camping trips together.
    • Hays County Unschoolers: This group meets up primarily in the Buda/Kyle/San Marcos area for open play and learning.

    For the Book Lovers:

    • Weekly Drip Book Club: Meets monthly (without kids) to discuss assigned book. Additional meet ups for specific book interests are also planned, as well as other moms’ nights out.
    • Library Book Clubs: Local libraries usually have multiple book club options, some you can join with your children, that will give you an opportunity to meet up with other moms regularly.

    For Those into Fitness:

    • DripFit: This group of women meets weekly. Drip Fit provides professionally designed workouts, moms’ nights out, a community of support, and family events.
    • YMCA: Join weekly classes at the YMCA to spend time with the same group of people who have similar interests.
    • Fit4Mom: Meets in San Marcos, Wimberley, and Dripping Springs. These classes provide prenatal and postnatal fitness programs, including a network of moms to support every stage of motherhood. Moms can bring babies and toddlers in strollers to work out.
    • Play Tennis or Pickleball: Join a clinic through the Polo Club and start playing doubles with your new best friends. Dreamland also has pickle ball teams.

    Other Options:

    • PTA: Join the PTA Board or a committee of the PTA to get to know other service-minded moms. It’s volunteer work, but it’s also a lot of fun, and there are always plenty of opportunities to hang out together outside of school functions.
    • Boosters: Another great opportunity to get involved and meet other moms is through the athletic and other extracurricular boosters through the middle and high schools.
    • Fearless Moms: Meets on Wednesdays at Lake Hills Church. This weekly gathering includes a lively and uplifting message specific to motherhood, followed by small group hang outs and discussions.

    It’s my hope that no mom walks this journey alone. Community is so essential for mothers to feel supported and to thrive. An encouraging group of women helps us to be better equipped to care for our own families. The time and money investments are worth the gains.

    Please reach out if you have any questions about the groups or programs listed above or if you know of a local opportunity not listed here.

    This message is inspired by the gorgeous courtyard and playground at Austin Oaks Church.

    My children have climbed the beautiful oak trees more times than I can count, plus we’ve celebrated birthdays there, participated in a small carnival, taken our first professional photos as a family of six among those trees, experienced a folk music class, and grown significantly deeper in friendship on the benches and play structures. It is an amazing spot for reflection and prayer as well.

    Even if you do not attend Austin Oaks Church, it is worth a visit! I guarantee you will feel a sense of peace while walking among the oaks. Also, the playground, sand volleyball court, and outdoor basketball court are open to the public anytime the preschool or church is not using them (usually weekday afternoons, Saturday mornings, Sunday evenings).

  • Who’s in Charge?

    Who’s in Charge?

    Inspired by Guadalupe River State Park

    I’m the type who likes to make plans. I love to make bucket lists for each season and to-do lists for each day. I love doing projects and watching the development from start to finish. I love planning vacations and family visits. I even plan time for planning.

    My brother has explained to me that I compensate for anxiety by making plans. This compensatory skill has become especially helpful in dealing with chaotic and difficult seasons, as well as the unpredictability of parenting.

    While on my personal path of looking ahead and making plans, I’ve been picking and choosing what I want to hear from God, the Lord of hope. I’ve been reading scripture that promises that good is triumphant over evil, that we have hope as an anchor, and that the Lord can overcome all struggles. I like scripture that coincides with my plans.

    Then, I came across the type of story I was trying to avoid in Jeremiah 27-29. 

    Jeremiah prophesied that the Israelites would serve under King Nebuchadnezzer of Babylon, his son, and his grandson. They would leave their homeland and submit to the control of a king they distrusted. The Israelites didn’t like this prophesy. Many didn’t want to believe that they would give up freedoms and even die far from home while under King Nebuchadnezzer’s rule. They were told it would be 70 years of oppression. 70 years away from the comfort of home. 70 years living a life they had not planned.

    This opened the door to a false prophet, Hananiah, who promised that the people would return to their land and the lives they were used to within two years. It was a promise people could cling to. Hananiah’s prophecy offered hope. The Israelites could make their plans. 

    But Hananiah was wrong. The Israelites were exiled. Their plans were destroyed… their hope, diminished.

    If I lived during the 6th century, BC, who would I have chosen to believe – Jeremiah or Hananiah?

    I probably would have listened to the false prophet. His promise would’ve matched my plans. His prophecy would’ve sounded better for my idea of the life I desire for myself and my family. It would’ve offered my version of hope, just as I choose to believe that this political season and economic downturn, full of anger, division, frustration, decline, and violence, will end soon and lead to significant change in our nation. I’m making my plans! 

    However, it’s not about me and my plans. The hope our Father offers is not related to the leader of this nation or how much money we can save (or spend). I have to remember the true message in Jeremiah’s prophecy.

    Jeremiah encouraged the Israelites to live well while in exile, even if their own plans for a good life would never come to fruition. They were called to worship the true king, work hard even under oppressive rule, to sow gardens they may never get to reap, to build homes somewhere other than their homeland, to marry despite their inward strife, to have children potentially bound to slavery, and to pray for the town and the king they did not choose.

    In Jeremiah 29:11, he adds God’s familiar promise: “For I know the plans I have for you. They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” 

    This bit of scripture reminds us that we have many blessings and opportunities to live a fruitful life no matter the circumstances we find ourselves in. Our idea of abundance may not match His, but God is good in all situations, seasons, and political regimes, even if His own plans don’t make sense to me or align with mine.

    There is always a greater promise than the earthly plans we make for ourselves, and it will be better than we could have ever imagined. I will worship the king of kings above all else and rely on the hope He promises, regardless of current circumstances and my own faltered plans.

    This piece is inspired by Guadalupe River State Park. We love visiting this park because of the beautiful river running through it, the kid-friendly trails, the discovery room, and the stunning views. Although the river is fun to swim in and quite calm near the banks, the current can surprise you and take control.

    Once, when my husband and I brought our two toddlers to the park, we waded out to the center of the shallow river, each holding one of our little ones , who wore puddle jumper floaties because they were not yet swimmers. As we ventured toward the small ripples in the water, something took hold of us, and we were no longer in control.

    The current slammed our bodies into large rocks underwater, and there was no way to get our footing. We struggled to keep our babies, and even our own heads, above water. As I recognized that we weren’t able to keep our kids and ourselves safe, I screamed, “toss the babies to shore”. With as much might as we could muster, we launched the kids out of the current’s path and prayed they could stand and get to shore. We had to let go and trust that they would be ok.

    Then, we could use our freed hands to swim toward the shore ourselves. It worked, and the kids were safe! Thank God we walked away with just cuts and bruises, as well as a greater appreciation for the forces of nature.

  • Road Trip Edition: Southwest Houston with Kids

    Road Trip Edition: Southwest Houston with Kids

    What’s the first thing you think of when you hear “Houston”? Is it NASA and its space shuttles? Or a sprawling cityscape with interstates weaving throughout? The beach in Galveston? The ever-expanding zoo? The medical center?

    There’s no doubt that the city of Houston is full of hustle and bustle with endless sights to see and major tourist attractions. Most of the attractions cost a pretty penny or require competing with a crowd, especially during weekends, holidays, and the summer break.

    I just took my nephew and youngest son to the Houston Zoo this week (in July) because we snagged free tickets, but it seemed that the number of people at the zoo at 4 pm on a blistering summer Tuesday was greater than the entire population of our hometown of Dripping Springs! The same was true when I took the kids to the Museum of Natural Science last summer.

    While these attractions can be a lot of fun for the kids and are worth visiting at least once, I prefer exploring the less-busy and always-free playgrounds and parks that are abundant inside the loop in Houston.

    Despite its size and reputation, Houston actually has a lot of green space and unique parks that can even entertain the kids who claim they’re too old for them. You could easily fill several days with parks and never get bored.

    Here is a list of our favorite parks in no particular order, as well as our top choice for a nearby restaurant to visit before or after playtime:

    1. Levy Park

    📍3801 Eastside St, Houston, TX 77098

    Water feature/splash pad
    Tunnels
    Spinning discs
    Rock wall
    Concrete hill slide
    Turf hills
    Fave Restaurant Nearby:

    Gazpachos Mexican Bites (on-site!)

    2. Evelyn’s Park

    📍4400 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire, TX 77401

    Open grassy field
    Sculptures
    Splash Pad
    Challenging Climbing Structures
    Sand Pit and Water Fearure
    Betsy’s Restaurant
    Fave Restaurant Nearby:

    The Buffalo Grille or Betsy’s (on-site!)

    3. Discovery Green

    📍1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010

    Sliding Hill
    Playground
    Climbing Structures
    Water Feature
    Splash Pad
    Art Lab
    Fave Restaurant Nearby:

    The Grove (on site!)

    4. Hermann Park

    📍6001 Fannin St, Houston, TX 77030

    Unique Playgrounds
    Turtle and Koi Pond
    Huge Water Feature/Splashpad
    Hill slides
    NASA-themed Playground
    Train
    Pine Hill Walk
    Miller Hill and Amphitheater
    Fave Restaurant Nearby:

    Hungry’s Rice Village

    5. Loftin Park and Aquatic Complex*

    *swim for a fee

    📍7008 S. Rice, Bellaire, TX 77401

    Peaceful Setting (large grassy area)
    Opportunity for Imaginative Play
    Holiday Events
    Shaded Playground
    Toddler Play Space
    Aquatic Center ($10-$16/non-res)
    Fave Restaurant Nearby:

    The ‘401

    6. Memorial Park and Arboretum

    📍6501 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77007

    Hikes and Natural Play Areas
    Huge Playground
    Miles of Hike and Bike Trails
    Arboretum Playground: Nature-Inspired
    Indoor Discovery Room (Arboretum)
    Events and Guided Hikes (Arboretum)
    Fave Restaurant Nearby:

    Black Walnut Cafe

    7. Donavan Park

    📍700 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77007

    Play Train
    All fenced in
    Toddler-friendly Play Areas
    Wooden Castle
    Fave Restaurant Nearby:

    Local Foods – The Heights

    8. Hedwig Park

    Several Playscapes
    Open Field
    Swings
    Toddler Play
    Make-Believe Play
    Lots of Shade
    Fave Restaurant Nearby:

    Ciro’s

    We hope this list can be a guide for your next trip to the southwest side/inner loop of Houston, especially if you’re looking to balance out the cost of tourist attractions often visited in the big city. With over 43,000 acres of green space and 382 parks, visitors can enjoy the slower and natural aspects of Houston while still having a ton of fun.

  • How Wasteful

    How Wasteful

    Inspired by Pioneer Farms, a place that reminds us of when people lived on so little and treasured their limited time together

    “How wasteful!”

    This phrase comes out of my mouth more often than I’m aware. When I’m walking past the trash cans after a high school football game and see hundreds of plastic water bottles overflowing the bin, I’ll whisper to myself, “how wasteful!”

    When I see my kids take more than one paper towel in the bathroom to half-dry their tiny little hands, I gasp, “how wasteful!”

    When I receive a small item from Amazon on my porch in a large box with an abundance of plastic bubble wrap, I mutter, “how wasteful!”

    And don’t even get me started on how I react when money is wasted!

    I could share hundreds of examples of excessive waste in our world. While I try to find ways to reduce and reuse, such as the pledge my family took for an entire year not to drink water from plastic water bottles and the fact that we drive cars until they practically fall apart, I recognize that I am part of the problem too.

    Then, at church one Sunday, I listened to a sermon that made me look at waste in a whole new way. The pastor was preaching on happiness, and he made a bold yet obvious statement about how to live a full life:

    “Don’t waste good days.”

    My heart skipped a beat. Too often, I worry about trash and excess purchases, but what I waste more than anything is a very precious resource God gave us:

    Time.


    I’m sure God might notice “how wasteful!” I’m being when I vent to my husband about matters and people I cannot change or when I last-minute-cancel a friend’s request to go to lunch because I’m scurrying around my empty house completing my self-assigned to-do list. God could mutter, “how wasteful!” when he sees me playing around with Instagram filters, then typing, deleting, and retyping the perfect caption for that edited photo, while there’s a shining sun glaring through my window. And what about when I’m catching up on dozens of texts from a group chat while my child is begging to play.

    The Lord has given me so much, including time on this Earth, so much so that there’s opportunity to waste it in worry, fear, complaining, anger, excess, and busyness.

    But that’s not His intent for us. He created a universe and a livelihood that’s meant for joy, pleasure, community, and love. He’s blessed us with people who need and want our affection and attention. These good days cannot be squandered.

    I have to vow to choose joy and pay attention to how I spend my days; I don’t know how many I have left. There’s no time to waste.

    When my kids and I visit historic sites, especially living history farms, it often reminds how little time could be wasted when survival was on the line. Last year, we read through the entire Little House on the Prairie series. There were many days that the family had to sit around and wait for horrible weather to pass or ride in a wagon for countless hours until they reached a destination. That time seemed to be wasted, but they always made the most of it with conversation, important tasks, studying, reading, and playing music.

    My kids and I enjoy visiting these historic sites and imagining how we’d spend our time if we had lived back then. I highly recommend a visit to Pioneer Farms in Austin to take your family back in time and reminisce on a slower way of life.

    Teach us to number our days, that we may get a heart of wisdom.

    -Psalm 90:12 NIV

  • Family Hike at Zilker Botanical Garden

    Family Hike at Zilker Botanical Garden

    Tourist attraction or hike? You decide.

    ✅ Trails for Children

    ❌ Swimming

    ✅ Bathrooms

    ❌ Playground and Sports Fields

    ✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails (and free parking) – on certain days only

    ✅ Stroller-friendly Trails

    ❌ Reservations needed

    Zilker Botanical Garden isn’t just a beautiful tourist attraction; it’s a great place for a family hike. There is so much to see and do along the trails that you can pause your hike for photo opps, play time, a history or horticulture lesson, some animal-watching, and a little shopping.

    The gardens are open every day from 9 am to 6 pm in Spring and Summer and then until 5 pm in Fall/Winter. Check the website for special events and FREE days. You can always get in free if you become a member or if you are a member of another botanical garden, such as the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, that’s a part of the AHS Reciprocal Membership Network. Families with Electronic Benefits Transfer cards, WIC cards, STAR cards, CHIP cards, Medicaid cards and MAP identification cards also get free general admission.

    Otherwise, ticket prices are:

    Austin Residents
    Youth – (Ages 3 & 17) – $3
    Adults – (Ages 18 & 61) – $6
    Seniors – (Ages 62 & Over) – $5

    Non-Austin Residents
    Youth – (Ages 3 & 17) – $4
    Adults – (Ages 18 & 61) – $8
    Seniors – (Ages 62 & Over) – $    7

    We’re excited to share everything we love about the Zilker Botanical Garden in the heart of Austin, TX!

    Trail Options for All Levels

    Whether hiking with tiny tots, older kids, or adults, these trails are a great choice! You can take a short hike with a stroller making several stops to check out all of the flora and fauna or you can meander through the miles of trails with changing elevations for a more rigorous hike (and even extend your walk to the hike and bike trail along Lady Bird Lake right across the street).

    Most trails are cement or flattened mulch paths. Some areas have stairs or steep inclines, but there are handicap/stroller-accessible trails nearby that will take you to the same destinations.

    Easy Parking and Access

    Google Maps will take you directly to the entrance. You can park for free in the parking lot after checking in at the ticket station. Then, you can choose a trail that begins right from the parking lot; there are many themed options with signs along the way. Or you can start in the gift shop by grabbing a free scavenger hunt brochure for yourself and the little ones.

    Interesting Sights

    It’s a botanical garden, so there’s plenty to see. You’ll find koi ponds, dino statues and tracks, historic cabins, a vegetable garden, a musical play area, picnic tables, and a perfect view of the downtown Austin skyline.

    If you go during May or June, you can visit the tiny faerie houses and villages. If you visit during the Fall season, you can learn all about butterflies at the Roots and Wings festival. In December, you can celebrate Yule in the Garden and participate in crafts and sing-alongs, and in February, you can attend Dino Days. There are several seasonal and weekly community events year-round to make your hike that much more enjoyable .

    Coffee Truck On-Site

    Before or after hitting your daily step count, stop by the coffee truck situated in the parking lot for your caffeine fix and some lemonade for the kids. You can rest in the shade at the nearby picnic tables while the kids make music for you on the garden-themed percussion instruments.

    Zilker Botanical Garden is right in the heart of downtown Austin, so you can add on paddleboarding at Ladybird Lake, a stroll down South Congress to visit the eclectic shops and restaurants, a visit to one of the highly-acclaimed museums, or listen to live music at one of the many venues in the area. The options are endless.

    Let us know what you think after you visit! For other family hike recommendations in the Texas Hill Country, check out our page, This Week’s Hike.

    Follow @dripping_with_kids on Instagram or this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country! We’d love to hear about your favorites as well.

  • Anchored ’til the End

    Anchored ’til the End

    Inspired by Inks Lake State Park, a place of natural beauty that’s withstood the test of time and change

    Today, a memory came to mind. It was of the 2019 Christmas program in which my two youngest children, Henry and Georgia, performed at their preschool.

    Georgia was a sheep, and Henry was dressed as an angel. I already assumed upon taking my seat that I would see a very different performance from 4 year-old Georgia than from 2 year-old Henry. This difference was apparent the moment they walked down the aisle toward the stage at the front of the sanctuary.

    Georgia held her head high, looked for us, and then smiled excitedly when she saw us at the edge of our seats. Henry, on the other hand, walked very quickly with his head forward, staring at the back of the friend in front of him. He wouldn’t even look over at us despite how many times and how loudly we called his name.

    As the program started, Georgia sang her lyrics loud and proud, checked to make sure we were recording her, and giggled with the little girl next to her. She excitedly encouraged everyone to “go tell it on the mountain”, and you could see that she had that joy, joy, joy down deep in her heart. She made her mom and dad very proud. 

    Then, there was Henry on the opposite side of the stage, looking more perplexed than I imagined possible for a 2 year-old. He stood there, staring off in the distance, with his hands at his sides, occasionally repeating the final word of a verse one second too late. He was the cutest little angel, but my poor baby just looked lost.

    Then, something unexpected happened. All of his classmates started getting shy or nervous and left the stage to go sit by their teacher on the floor in the audience. 

    But Henry stayed. 

    He didn’t know a single hand motion and only mumbled about one out of every 10 lyrics, but he stayed. He stood there, all by himself, until the end… the only angel left on stage.

    My husband and I wanted so badly to return Georgia’s gazes toward us for attention and pick out her sweet voice among all the loud, singing children, but we were in awe of Henry. We kept a phone pointed at Georgia, recording every second, but our eyes were glued to Henry. We waited in anxious anticipation to see if he would run off like his classmates or if he would suddenly start belting out lyrics he hadn’t practiced. But most of all, as we stared at him with huge smiles on our faces, we felt a sort of pride that didn’t seem to make sense. 

    I imagine God sees all of His children in this way. Some have been practicing their faith for many years. They know the verses; they can go through the motions by memory; and they are comfortable with all eyes on them at the table. These children are incredibly special and set an example for many who may be new to the faith. 

    However, some of His children are at that same table, sitting quietly, wondering what they’re supposed to say, what their next move should be. They’re intimidated by their new circle of friends who have that perfect memorized verse to share in a difficult conversation. They may even think about running away and not returning.

    But they stay.

    They sit at the table, possibly perplexed, but still standing firm in their faith. They’re just so pleased to finally be at that table. I think God looks at these particular children with a different kind of pride, watching and waiting to see that growth that He knows will come. He smiles down and can’t keep His eyes off of His child who will eventually read, practice, share, teach, and serve others in His name. In those early stages, though, the most important thing is that His child hasn’t run away. He or she welcomes God’s love and remains until the end, anticipating all the good that’s to come.

    Yet to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God — children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

    – John 1:12 NIV

  • How Do You Take Your Coffee?

    How Do You Take Your Coffee?

    Every morning, I play hide and seek with my favorite mug, although I’m perpetually the frustrated seeker in the game. Thankfully, I have the equivalent of a toddler nearby who impatiently reveals the other player’s hiding spot. *beep, beep* It’s my microwave, reminding me that I left my coffee in there for the 5th time already this morning. And it’s only 7 am.

    Most people have a definitive and memorized answer to the title question above: “How do you take your coffee?” Maybe you take your coffee black or with a little sugar. Maybe you prefer cappuccino or a latte. Maybe you’re like one of my friends who fancies just a little bit of coffee with her cream. Or like another who doesn’t drink coffee at all but savors tea.

    That essential beverage becomes our lifeline to face the busyness and stress of the morning with a bit more gusto and resolve. We each have our unique way of making and taking that steaming cup, but I’d venture to guess that most of us have one thing in common: our early morning libation is rarely a part of a relaxing or motivating ritual. We’re stealing sips between diaper changes, lunch-packing, carpool line complaints, hair-brushing and makeup application, or giving countless commands to others. Our early mornings are no longer slow or sacred. The pace of our current culture has diminished the joy that morning coffee should bring.

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    What if the question, “How do you take your coffee?” had a different implication? What if you took your coffee on the back porch with a devotional and some time to journal? What if you took your coffee while playing uninterrupted on the floor with your toddler? What if you took your coffee to the bathroom while your spouse was getting ready for the day and had an early-morning chat about nothing and everything all at once? How would that change the course of your day and the mood with which you tackle it?

    Recently, while on a kid-free vacation with my husband, I took the time to linger with my coffee. I actually sat down. I read. I wrote. I shared plans for the day with my favorite person. It was glorious!

    Morning coffee

    Then and there, I decided to take back my morning coffee. I vowed not to choke it down after reheating it a dozen times or clean up the small spills all over the house that happen as I rush from room to room with a full cup in my hand. I vowed to be intentional with that time and with that steaming cup of yummy goodness. I know this is not a new concept and that taking that extra time for yourself in the morning is preached often, but I’ve never quite figured out how to make it happen. Or maybe I’ve never been motivated enough. So, please be my accountability partners! Join me in this coffee “revolution”, allowing us to slowly savor our favorite hot drink with the intention of reflecting in gratitude yet also preparing for our busy days ahead. I would LOVE to hear from you on how you take your coffee, whether it’s amidst obligations and chaos or sitting peacefully on your porch. Spill it all on Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #takebackmycoffee, and check out how my mornings go at https://www.instagram.com/dripping_with_kids/ or on Facebook at https://m.facebook.com/drippingwithkidsblog/.

    If you’re still doubting that taking back your morning coffee is possible, I hope these suggestions will encourage you to try!

    1. Listen to a fave podcast! I recommend “Happy Hour” by Jamie Ivey for inspiration, How to Money” with Joel and Matt for great financial advice, “Before Breakfast” by Laura Vanderkam for encouragement in making the most of your mornings, or “Straight Up with Stassi” for a good laugh.

    2. Sing along to contemporary Christian music. I know there’s been a bit of a stigma around Christian music in the past, but I dare you to listen to “Grace Got You” by Mercy Me, then come back and tell me that you’re not totally pumped for the day ahead. Spoiler alert: it won’t happen. That song will get you moving!

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    3. Get to writing! You don’t have to commit yourself to deep thoughts in a lengthy journal post, but just brain-dumping can feel really good. Jotting down notes on the next vacation you want to take can motivate you to work that much harder. Penning a letter to a friend or even to your future self might put a smile on your face. Writing is therapeutic and so beneficial for the mind.

    4. Call a sick friend or family member. Start your day off by brightening theirs. You can have coffee together even if you’re not in the same room.

    5. Pour your brew into a travel mug, wake one of your kids or your spouse up early, and go for a short walk. Enjoy the cool morning air and a leisurely conversation.

    6. Delay your morning coffee until everyone else has left the house and just be alone with your thoughts, meditate, or pray for a bit.

    7. Bake or meal-prep as you sip. That feeling of accomplishment after doing something purposeful with your hands is a great way to stay motivated all day long.

    8. Color. Have you tried one of those adult coloring books yet? They’re great for stress relief and leave you with a beautiful piece of self-made art.

    9. Play with your kids. Maybe you’re happiest when you immerse yourself in their joy. Take that coffee to the floor, grab some puzzle pieces, and be a kid again with the ones you love most.

    10. Read a good book or devotional uninterrupted. Wake up 30 minutes earlier, find a quiet corner in the house or a comfy chair outside, and immerse yourself in a story.

    Whatever you choose to do, just do it! I’ll be fighting the battle against morning to-do’s along with you. 🧡