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Tag: Crosswinds Kyle

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Productive Habits to Start the New Year

We all know that the new year is a time when many of us pin a list of resolutions or goals that we hope to accomplish in the next 365 days. Most of us are probably also familiar that a great deal of those resolutions fizzle out by the end of February. 

 

Sometimes achieving a goal is all about developing good, consistent habits to set you on the right track for meeting that goal. On average, it takes around 66 days to develop a behavior into a new habit … here are a few you might want to consider trying on for size. 

 

Healthy Habits in 2023

 

Exercising and eating healthy are some of the most common resolutions people set for themselves in the new year. One of the best healthy habits you can adopt is drinking more water. Drinking water helps curb food cravings, ease digestion, hydrate your muscles, and transport nutrients throughout the body. 

 

It’s also an incredibly easy habit to pick up! Buy a new water bottle and keep it by your keys before you head out the door in the morning. Keep it by your desk while you work and before you know it, you’ll be sipping H2O 24/7.

 

We hear it often: “Exercise more!” Easier said than done, right? Well, maybe not. Mental tricks can help you develop a good exercise routine. Set a reminder on your phone to do 2 minutes of exercise three days a week during a time when you know you’re generally not too busy (everybody can squeeze in 2 minutes). Increase it to 5 minutes the next week. Then 10… 20…40… working up to one hour. Before you know it, the habit is set.

 

Don’t pigeonhole yourself into one workout either, or you risk getting bored easily. Take a class at the Kyle recreation center for a week. If you live in Crosswinds, hit the treadmill in the Crosswinds gym the next week, walk on a trail, or swim laps in the pool during the warmer months. Pretty soon, regular exercise will be second nature. 

 

Strengthen Your Mind

 

Put your Kyle Library card to good use in 2023 and make reading for pleasure a weekly habit. Not only will regular reading increase your knowledge of the world around you as well as broaden your vocabulary, but it will strengthen your memory and ability to effectively communicate with others. 

 

And speaking of communication, a great new habit to work on in the new year is the art of listening. As Forbes points out, being a good listener can help reinforce bonds in both your personal and professional relationships. It might sound easy, but active listening can be tricky for a lot of people. 

 

A few tips to keep in mind include trying to maintain good eye contact, don’t interrupt but instead focusing on what the person is saying, and waiting for the speaker to pause. Consciously trying to understand and visualize what the other person is saying can also help make you a better listener.

 

There is going to be a lot happening in Kyle in 2023, and adopting a few good habits at the start of the year can help you make the most of it. If you’d like to learn more about finding a home in a community that encourages an active lifestyle, reach out to the Crosswinds team.

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Family Fun

Spooky Season in Kyle

Calling all ghouls, ghosts, and goblins, the spooky season is upon us, and if you’re in search of something to howl about this Halloween near Kyle, consider adding these events to your October calendar. 

 

Dances with Disabilities Halloween Boo-gie – Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to shake your bones on the dance floor at this event for individuals of all ages with disabilities. A DJ will keep the party going from 6 – 8 PM and there will be swag bags for guests as well as a concessions booth with snacks and drinks. 

 

This is a free event but it is limited to 300 guests and reservations are recommended. The party kicks off on September 30 at the Gem-Stone Palace building (1101 Bunton Creek Rd, Kyle, TX 78640).

 

Halloween Movie at the Park – Grab a blanket and your favorite snacks, and snag a spot on the Basketball Court located at Gregg-Clarke Park for a showing of Disney Pixar’s Coco. The PG-rated movie runs around an hour and 40 minutes and tells the story of a child with dreams of being a musician who enters the Land of the Dead to meet a long-lost relative. 

 

The event is free and the film begins at sundown on Oct 14. 

 

Center Street Trick-or-Treat – The kiddos can stock up on candy a week early this year at not one, but two community trick-or-treat events. The first one is in conjunction with the Kyle Parks and Recreation Department and local businesses will be setting up tents and tables with candy and other goodies. Bring the kids in their costumes for the perfect trick-or-treat event!

 

In addition to food and drink vendors on-site for the adults, there will also be a costume contest and pumpkin painting contest (pumpkins and paint will be provided). The fun happens Oct. 22 from noon to 3 PM at Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park.

 

Community Trunk-or-Treat Car Show & Fundraiser – As we promised, another community candy grab is happening the same day in nearby Lockhart to benefit the Lockhart Special Olympics. Admission is free and in addition to candy (obviously), there will be face painting, raffles, children and pet costume contests, and live music. 

 

No need to worry about which one to go to… because you can attend both! Check out the Center Street Trick-or-Treat, then hop on your broom and make your way to the Trunk-or-Treat event in downtown Lockhart from 4 to 10 PM on Oct 22. 

 

Austin Symphony Orchestra’s Halloween Children’s Concert – Musical chills and thrills await concertgoers at this all-ages classical concert. The Austin Symphony Orchestra will be presenting music from movie composers John Williams (Jaws, Star Wars, Harry Potter, Jurassic Park) and Danny Elfman (Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands, The Nightmare Before Christmas).

 

Children are invited to dress up for this all-ages evening of spooky songs on October 23, at 3 PM at the Long Center for Performing Arts in Austin. 

 

Spooky Silent Disco Party – This one is for the grown ghosts and ghouls 21+ who want to party like the living dead. Guests will be provided with a pair of headphones allowing them to tune into one of the three DJs playing top 40 dance hits, 80’s, 90’s & 2K Throwback tunes, and hip-hop/R&B. You’ll also get some glow gear to deck out your costume (costumes aren’t mandatory but are highly encouraged) and the bar will be open with spookily delicious libations. 

 

Join other party monsters at The Belmont in Austin for this silent disco on Oct. 28 from 10 PM to 2 AM. Tickets are $15-$25. 

 

After a month of scary good fun, nothing’s better than curling up on the couch in a home you love and enjoying your favorite spooky movie. If you’d like to learn more about our beautiful homes at Crosswinds, reach out to us today. 

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Amenities

Best Reasons to move to Crosswinds This Fall

The Texas Hill Country is growing and that means Kyle is growing. New families are discovering the appeal of our community every day and are planting roots here. Victoria Vargas, the interim director of economic development for the City of Kyle, recently told KVUE News that Kyle saw 63% growth between 2010 and 2020 and that “growth is not expected to slow down any time soon.”

 

It’s not just our affordability and proximity to Austin that’s attracting folks to Kyle. From economic growth such as Lowe’s new distribution center and the development of Kyle Crossing Phase II to festivities like the Pie in the Sky Festival, a lot is happening in Kyle. 

 

If you’re thinking about moving to Kyle or you’ve recently moved here and are looking to buy a home, the fall season is the perfect time to move to the Crosswinds community. 

 

Outdoor Fun at Crosswinds 

 

Don’t get us wrong, we love summer in Kyle, but by the end of August, it’s nice to have a break from those 100-degree temps. The average temperature in September in Kyle is 88 F, and by October it’s even cooler, making fall the perfect season to enjoy so many of the outdoor amenities at Crosswinds. 

 

Our Sports Court is the perfect place to work up a sweat over a game of pickup basketball with friends, or perhaps see what all the buzz is about with pickleball. Meanwhile, the kiddos can enjoy the last few weeks of daylight savings time and burn off some energy after school or dinner on our community playscape. 

 

Crosswinds residents got to spend the summer enjoying our resort-style pool and splash pad. (Don’t worry, there’s still plenty of time for a swim if you haven’t had a chance to take a dip yet.)

 

Crosswinds residents also have access to our hike and bike trails, as well as a dog park for our furry residents. One of the biggest highlights of the fall season is the return of football, and our community grills and picnic areas are perfect for cooking up some grub before kickoff. 

 

Find Your Dream Home

 

Spring and summer tend to be the busiest months when it comes to home shopping, but don’t rule out buying a home in the fall. According to Zillow, sellers tend to lower prices in late summer, giving fall buyers a bit more flexibility when it comes to price. 

 

The homes in Crosswinds have all been built by homebuilders that are leaders in the industry. Gehan Homes, Highland Homes, Pacesetter Homes, and MileStone Community Builders are all award-winning builders that have crafted beautiful homes in the Crosswinds community. All of our homes include spacious floor plans that draw upon both modern and traditional style and craftsmanship. 

 

With a range of prices and floor plan sizes and an abundance of community features, it’s easy to see why Crosswinds is such an appealing community in Kyle. If you’d like to learn more about finding a home in the Crosswinds community, reach out to us today. 

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Area Attractions Family Fun

How to Beat the Heat: Indoor Family Fun in Kyle, TX

By August, just about everyone has had it with the heat. You’re sweaty, the kids have been to the pool more times than you can count, and you’re running low on sunscreen. Clearly, this calls for some indoor relief. We may be in the middle of the dog days of summer, but there are still plenty of fun things to do right here in Kyle – all from the comfort of air conditioning!

 

Head to the Movie Theater (or bowling alley) – Yes, you can stream from an endless selection of movies without getting off the couch, but there’s just something magical about the movie theater that can’t be replicated in the living room. 

 

If it’s been a while since you packed the kiddos in the car and went to the movies, now is the perfect time to spend a day at EVO in Kyle. With VR games and a full bowling alley, the entertainment megaplex has plenty of ways to keep the family entertained long after the credits roll. 

 

Bounce, Climb, and Swing – Urban Air bills itself as “the ultimate indoor adventure park and a destination for family fun.” The keyword here is “indoor.”

 

This indoor trampoline park in Austin is a guaranteed way to help the kids burn off some of that summer energy before the school year starts. In addition to the trampolines, there are climbing walls, go-karts, and laser tag. A range of price options also gives parents some flexibility in regards to their child’s ability and skill level.  

 

A Place Just for the Littles – With numerous locations throughout the Hill Country, Little Land is a popular indoor gym and play space geared toward helping children grow. The play space offers a variety of programs and activities ranging from open play-gym to pediatric physical therapy, music programs, day camps, and parents’ night-out events. 

 

Become a Ninja… a Code Ninja – You won’t find any throwing stars or nunchucks here, but what families will discover is an environment that fosters creative thinking and problem-solving. Instead of simply playing video games, Code Ninja centers teach kids how to build their own video games through a fun coding curriculum. The centers offer programs for children ages 5 to 14 with a variety of camp and at-home programming from basic coding to robotics. 

 

Shoot Some Zombies and Create a Masterpiece – Blasting zombies and creating stunning art probably don’t have a lot in common, but kids can do both at Uncharted Adventures. This multi-activity center is geared more toward older children and teens but is sure to be a fun indoor activity for both kids and parents. 

 

With everything from rage rooms that allow guests to smash and break things to their heart’s content to escape rooms, splatter paint sessions, ax throwing, and yes, a zombie airsoft arena, this place is anything but boring. 

 

Hopefully, this will provide you with a little inspiration on the next hot summer day when you need a way to beat the heat and kill a few hours indoors.  

 

As you can see, Kyle has a lot to offer when it comes to family fun. If you’d like to find the perfect home here for your family, reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more about our home builders. 

 

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Area Attractions

Unchartered Adventures: Kyle’s Original Rage Room

Shattered plates, old TVs smashed to smithereens, home appliances beaten to a pulp, and broken glass – literally everywhere. Usually, a scene like this would be concerning, but it’s actually the aftermath of a whole lotta fun for visitors of Unchartered Adventure’s Rage Room in Kyle! 

 

You could say that rage rooms are all the rage, as they’ve recently been popping up in cities from coast to coast. Before we get into why grabbing a baseball bat or sledgehammer and reenacting the printer scene from Office Space is a whole lot of fun, let’s explain what a rage room or smash room is. Basically, it’s a room full of donated junk where, for a small fee, guests get to break, smash, and pulverize anything in the room. 

 

The items in the room to rage on can range from things as small as a coffee mug to as big as an old car. Once guests suit up in coveralls, face shields, eye protection, and gloves, they’re free to grab their weapon of choice and smash away. Some people opt for baseball bats and old golf clubs while others test their might with sledgehammers. Feel like simply throwing plates at a wall? You can do that too! 

 

Besides being great fun, it’s also an easy way to blow off some steam. “I actually left feeling better and less stressed,” reads a review from Joshua Ortiz. And because smashing things to a soundtrack is just more fun, the Unchartered Adventures team has equipped the room with a sound system so guests can put on whatever music they want to rage out to. 

 

Not only does Unchartered Adventures offer a place to break old electronics without getting in trouble or having to clean up the mess (the staff handles that), but it offers several other adventures worth checking out. 

 

Guests can choose from ax throwing, escape rooms, or a zombie air soft arena where visitors hunt for the undead in a post-apocalyptic maze of splattered neon paint under black lights. 

 

One of the most popular offerings that are certain to be a hit with guests of all ages is the splatter paint room. The entire room is a canvas under a blacklight that brings to life a palette of neon acrylic colors. Guests can use brushes, sponges, stencils, and other tools to channel their creative spirit and create their own messy masterpieces. (Don’t worry, protective ponchos and shoe covers are provided to keep your clothes mess-free.)

 

It’s no surprise that killing zombies, smashing up old cars, solving escape room riddles, hurling axes, and creating art can make a person thirsty. Guests can unwind before or after their adventure in the bar/lounge area that’s stocked with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and outfitted with several flatscreen TVs. 

 

With its anything-but-boring entertainment options and perfect chill-out area, it’s no wonder that Unchartered Adventures is such a hit for date nights, birthday parties, company outings, and so much more. 

This entertainment destination is just one of the many businesses that are a testament to Kyle’s economic growth. If you’d like to find a home here, reach out to learn more about our home builders at Crosswinds.

Photo from https://uncharteredadventures.com/gallery/

Categories
Lifestyle

Bird Watching in and Around Kyle, Texas

With its winding rivers, limestone cliffs, and rolling hills of open grasslands, the Texas Hill Country is fortunate to be home to a variety of migrating bird species. In fact, next to California, Texas boasts more birds calling it home than any other state in the country. Over 600 birds spend part of their lives in the Lone Star state and many of them are right here in the Central Texas region. 

 

If you’ve never considered birding as a hobby, you owe it to yourself to give it a try. Bird conservation not only enriches one’s appreciation for nature but helps to foster environmental stewardship, plus bird-friendly habitats can increase property values. Whether you’re new to the area and looking for birding tips or simply want to throw yourself into a new hobby, here’s a rundown of what makes Kyle such a wonderful place for birds and bird fans alike. 

 

Birds You May See in Kyle

There’s just something about this area that birds love. Over 350 different species of birds have been recorded in Hays County, Texas. This includes everything from songbirds such as warblers, orioles, bluebirds, and chickadees to birds of prey such as barn owls, hawks, and eagles. Many migrating birds pass through the area on their way up to Canada or down to Mexico. So if you’re lucky enough, you just might see a fulvous whistling duck or green-breasted mango!

 

Where to Spot Birds Around Kyle

Kyle happens to be near some wonderful birding hotspots where you’re guaranteed to see some pretty cool feathered friends – no matter what time of year you visit. If you really want to put your binoculars to good use, consider these birding destinations. 

 

  • Lake Kyle
  • Plum Creek Reservoir
  • Stagecoach Park (Buda)
  • John Stokes Park (San Marcos)
  • Spring Lake (San Marcos)
  • Blue Hole Park (Wimberly)

 

Bring the Birds to You

It doesn’t take a lot to establish your own backyard as a bird-friendly oasis. The easiest way to start is by installing a bird feeder and birdhouse or two. You’ll want to get a bird feeder that is squirrel resistant and choose birdseed that appeals to birds in the area. A basic universal birdseed should be heavily composed of black oil sunflower seeds. This will be a hit with everything from cardinals and finches to showstoppers such as the vermillion flycatcher. 

 

Consider putting up a hummingbird feeder and you may just attract a few buff-bellies or ruby-throated hummingbirds. Many people think that you need to buy specialty nectar for hummingbird feeders but according to the Audubon Society, the best option is a solution of ¼ cup of refined white sugar to 1 cup of water. 

 

When it comes to birdhouses, it’s all about who you want to take up roost. Smaller birdhouses will attract everything from starlings and wrens to Eastern Bluebirds. While some people may have luck with hawks or owls settling into larger birdhouses, most often, these birds prefer to make their own nests high in the treetops or alongside cliffs.

 

Are you looking for a new home where you can create a birding space in your backyard? Reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more about our builders. 

Categories
Lifestyle

Kyle Local: Koy Chinese and Sushi

Kyle Local Restaurant

Looking for authentic Chinese cuisine and sushi? You can find that here in Kyle at Koy Chinese and Sushi (5695 Kyle Parkway, Ste. 800, Kyle, TX 78640). Owner Frank Lai opened Koy in Kyle when Hays County and the surrounding area were booming, in 2011.

The family has been in the restaurant business for more than 30 years. They founded the business on three things: exceptional service, being community-oriented, and delicious food.

According to Community Impact, at Koy’s beginning in 2011, there was a staff of about 10 people and as the community of Kyle saw massive population and economic growth, that growth was reflected in the success of local businesses like Koy.

All that success came to a screeching halt in 2020 when the pandemic hit. Koy had to drastically adjust its business model to keep the lights on and the sushi rolling. The restaurant suffered major setbacks, as did most businesses. Koy had to close its doors to dine-in, and the staff decreased by about half. The restaurant went from a successful, well-staffed restaurant to a small restaurant dependent on to-go orders and delivery services.

As Covid-19 precautions were gradually lifted and regular business resumed, Koy Chinese and Sushi bounced back as a local favorite for Chinese and sushi, with dine-in, to-go, and delivery options. Last October, Koy celebrated its 10th year of business.

Koy makes everything to order and fresh. Its sushi bar is overseen by a master sushi chef who prepares fresh sushi every day. You’ll find favorites such as the LA, spicy crab, California, and vegetable rolls. They also serve many favorites in Chinese cuisine such as General Tso’s chicken, beef and broccoli, cashew chicken, egg drop soup, and more.

Many customers rave about their dishes and say it’s authentic Chinese cuisine. Visit the Koy Chinese and Sushi Facebook page for some mouthwatering photos of their dishes. They also post menu updates, specials, and more, so give it a Like to stay up-to-date.

Have a hankering for other cuisines? Dripping Springs is full of a variety of cuisines. Here are some other Dripping Springs restaurants you might want to check out:

What’s your favorite restaurant in Kyle? Connect with us on social media and let us know!

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle and nearby, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Meet the Kyle home builders or contact our Crosswinds team.

Categories
Area Attractions

Kyle Local: Plum Creek Golf Course

Kyle Local: Golf

Golfers love the Kyle and the Austin, Texas, area because the weather is great for golfing almost year-round. Kyle is fortunate to have a golf course with spectacular views at Plum Creek Golf Course (4301 Benner, Kyle, TX 78640). Here’s what you’ll want to know about the Kyle golf course.

About Plum Creek Golf Course

The designers created a championship golf course in which no two fairways touch. It gives you the experience of playing your own private golf course. All 18 holes take you through a setting that reflects what makes the Hill Country memorable with its rolling hills, live oaks, and sparkling lakes. Check out the images showing the golf course to see what each hole looks like.

The course underwent a major renovation in 2012 to add a practice facility that includes 3 acres of short-game scoring areas, an acre of practice tee surface, multiple chipping greens, bunkers, uneven lie practice areas, and target greens. You have a wealth of opportunities for improving your golf game. And plenty of golf instruction is available if you’d like a helping hand from a pro. 

If you need any golf supplies, accessories, or attire, the pro shop is stocked to the gills with everything you want to enjoy golfing. This facility is also the home of the Texas State Bobcat men’s and women’s golf teams.

Other Things to Do at Plum Creek Golf Course

There’s nothing like a delicious meal after playing 18 holes or practicing your swings. Just head right over to Glenn’s Bar and Grill restaurant on the course for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks. It’s named for Glenn Evans who helped open Plum Creek Golf Course.

The restaurant underwent renovations in 2018 to add multiple beers on tap, more high-definition TVs, and brand-new furniture. Do you love to watch the big game on a big screen? Glenn’s has a 100″ projector that delivers an unbeatable game-viewing experience.

Have a celebration coming up? You can host an event, banquet, or wedding, at the facilities. The Plum Creek staff will take care of all the details including dining options. The facility is also accessible and they have rooms that can support 100 or 220 people, depending on the room you choose.

Visit the Plum Creek Golf Course Facebook page for upcoming events and updates.

To stay on top of great resources from Kyle and nearby, connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Looking to move? Meet the Kyle home builders or contact our Crosswinds team.

Categories
Area Attractions Homebuilder

Why You Should Start House Hunting During Winter

When it comes to homes near Austin, especially the new homes in Kyle, TX, it’s never too early to start looking! Crosswinds in Kyle, TX is the perfect master-planned community to call home, and 2017 is the year to start your search. Here’s why:

Perfect Timing for a Summer Move

Buying a home isn’t always a quick process. However, if you start your search during winter and find a community and home that you love, you can finalize all the details and paperwork in time for a summer move. This is especially great if you have children in school because then they can start out at a new school in August instead of moving in the middle of an ongoing school year.

Less Demand

Winter is the perfect time to start house hunting because there is less competition between homebuyers. With so many homes near Austin being built, there is no shortage of options, but half of the stress of home buying is competing with other potential buyers. Take advantage of the low competition and start your search during these slower months.

Rates are Still Low, But Not for Long

For some time now mortgage rates have been close to record lows, but that is starting to change. Since the presidential election, mortgage interest rates have risen approximately .5 percent, which is actually considered a rapid increase. While experts don’t believe that type of rise will continue, they do expect it to slowly rise throughout 2017 and the coming years. So don’t delay and start searching for your new home before this winter is over!

Our master-planned community will have plenty of new homes in Kyle, TX available, and they’re all being built by three amazing homebuilders that are known for their quality construction and attention to customer service.

Get a head start on all the other homebuyers out there, and begin house hunting now! You can start your search with our master-planned community of new homes in Kyle, TX. Learn more about Crosswinds in Kyle, TX and contact us today!

Image from Thinkstock by Getty Images. Item number: 519664048

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