Tag: Crosswinds

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Blog Family Fun Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Bringing the Outdoors Inside: Elevate Your Winter Interiors at Crosswinds

As the chill of February settles in, many of us at Crosswinds find solace in our cozy homes. But let’s be honest—winter has a way of making us miss the lush greens and colorful blooms of the great outdoors. The good news? You can bring a little bit of that natural beauty inside, even during the coldest months. Here are a few different ways to bring the outdoors inside during the winter months:

Elevate Your Space with Nature-Inspired Decor

The first step in bringing the outdoors inside is to incorporate natural elements into your decor. These additions can subtly evoke the essence of nature and make your home feel more harmonious.

  • Textiles and Patterns: Opt for throw pillows, blankets, or curtains adorned with botanical prints, earthy tones, or textures that mimic natural elements such as woodgrain or stone.
  • Natural Materials: Wooden bowls, rattan baskets, and ceramic vases are timeless additions that bring warmth and organic charm to any room. Pair these items with soft lighting to amplify their natural appeal.
  • Seasonal Centerpieces: Assemble a centerpiece using pinecones, dried flowers, and branches. These arrangements add an effortless rustic elegance that complements the winter season.

Choosing the Right Indoor Plants

Houseplants are an excellent way to breathe life into your home during winter. While some plants require ample sunlight and meticulous care, others thrive with minimal attention and limited natural light—perfect for brightening your space without adding to your to-do list. Here are a few low-maintenance options to consider:

  1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria): Known for its architectural beauty, the snake plant is an excellent choice for low-light corners or tabletops. Its striking, upright leaves add height and texture to any space. Even better, this plant requires infrequent watering and is highly forgiving.
  2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): A favorite among novice plant parents, pothos is a trailing plant that thrives in various light conditions. Its cascading vines make it perfect for hanging planters or high shelves, where its lush greenery can cascade gracefully.
  3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): The ZZ plant’s waxy, deep green leaves exude elegance and vitality. This resilient plant requires little sunlight and can go weeks without water, making it ideal for busy schedules.
  4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): For a touch of sophistication, consider the peace lily. Its glossy leaves and occasional white blooms bring understated beauty to any room. This plant thrives in low to medium light and only needs watering when its soil is dry.
  5. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): The spider plant’s arching foliage and easy propagation make it a fun and functional addition. Its ability to tolerate less-than-ideal conditions ensures it remains vibrant throughout winter.

Tips for Maintaining Indoor Plants in Winter

Winter can be a challenging season for houseplants, but a few simple adjustments can keep them thriving:

  • Avoid Overwatering: Most indoor plants require less water during the winter. Check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid root rot.
  • Group Plants Together: Placing plants in clusters can create a mini microclimate with higher humidity, which many plants appreciate during the dry winter months.
  • Clean the Leaves: Dust can accumulate on leaves, hindering their ability to photosynthesize. Wipe them gently with a damp cloth to keep them healthy.

A Winter Retreat

Combining nature-inspired decor with a curated selection of low-maintenance plants can transform your home into a peaceful retreat. Not only will your space feel more vibrant and alive, but these small touches will also uplift your mood and enhance your well-being throughout the season.

Whether it’s a single snake plant adorning your windowsill or an artful centerpiece gracing your dining table, these thoughtful additions will help your Crosswinds home feel even warmer this season. To learn more about life at Crosswinds, contact us today!

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Blog Family Fun Kyle Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken is Coming to Kyle!

Big news, Crosswinds! We’re thrilled to announce that Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken is on its way to Kyle, and it’s going to bring some serious flavor to our community. Construction has officially kicked off, and if all goes as planned, we’ll be enjoying their mouthwatering menu by the end of April.

 

What Makes Hangry Joe’s So Special?

This isn’t your typical fried chicken spot. Hangry Joe’s takes the best of both worlds—the bold, spicy punch of Nashville hot chicken and the irresistible crunch of Korean fried chicken—and combines them into something truly unforgettable. Whether you prefer mild and flavorful dishes or enjoy pushing your palate to the limits with bold, spicy heat, Hangry Joe’s menu offers a delectable array of options to satisfy every taste.

 

More Than Just Great Food

The forthcoming location in Kyle is set to be much more than a restaurant; it aspires to be a central gathering place for our community. With its warm and inviting ambiance, Hangry Joe’s is poised to become an ideal spot for a variety of occasions. Imagine reconnecting with friends over plates of golden, crispy chicken, enjoying a casual yet elegant meal with your family, or treating yourself to a delightful solo dining experience. The welcoming environment, paired with its exceptional menu, ensures that Hangry Joe’s will quickly become a cherished local destination.

 

Kyle Keeps Growing

Adding Hangry Joe’s to our neighborhood is more than just a tasty addition; it’s a sign of how much Kyle is growing and thriving. At Crosswinds, we’re lucky to be right in the middle of it all, and having a spot like this nearby means more great dining options without having to venture far from home. It’s just one more reason to love living here!

 

Countdown to Opening Day

Construction is already underway, and we’re counting down the days until Hangry Joe’s opens its doors. Mark your calendars for late April, and get ready to dig into a menu packed with flavor. Whether you’re a fried chicken fan or just curious to try something new, Hangry Joe’s is sure to wow you. You can follow Hangry Joe’s on social media to monitor any announcements regarding their upcoming Kyle location!

 

Let’s Show Some Local Love

Supporting local businesses is one of the best ways to keep our community vibrant and full of life. Hangry Joe’s coming to Kyle is a big win for all of us, and we can’t wait to welcome them with open arms (and empty stomachs!). Hangry Joe’s arrival underscores the vitality and potential of Kyle as a destination for both residents and visitors alike. By embracing this new addition, we contribute to the continued success and vibrancy of our city.

 

Stay Tuned

We’ll be sharing updates as the opening day gets closer, including sneak peeks of the menu and any special events they have planned. Follow along and get ready to experience something delicious. We can’t wait to see you at Hangry Joe’s in just a few short months!

To learn more about how Kyle is growing for Crosswinds residents, contact us today!

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Blog Family Fun Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Celebrate Love at Crosswinds: Unforgettable Valentine’s Day Ideas

Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love and connection, and as a resident of Crosswinds, you have a wealth of options to make the day unforgettable. Whether you prefer the comfort of your home or the charm of exploring your local community, there are countless ways to create special moments with your loved ones. Here are some curated ideas to help you plan a memorable Valentine’s Day:

 

Celebrate Love at Home

Sometimes, the most romantic gestures come from the heart of your home. Here are a few elegant and cozy ways to celebrate at Crosswinds:

 

A Candlelit Dinner at Home

 

Transform your dining space into a romantic retreat by preparing a special meal or ordering from a favorite local restaurant. Dim the lights, set the table with fine linens and candles, and play soft music to create an ambiance of intimacy. Consider pairing your meal with a bottle of wine from H-E-B Plus! or another local wine shop to enhance the evening.

 

Movie Night Under the Stars

 

Take advantage of your backyard space by setting up a cozy outdoor movie night. Hang string lights, lay out blankets and cushions, and watch your favorite romantic films under the Texas sky. Don’t forget to include a spread of snacks like popcorn, chocolate-covered strawberries, and sparkling cider.

 

DIY Spa Experience

 

Turn your bathroom into a spa haven. Prepare a relaxing bubble bath with rose petals and essential oils, and pamper each other with homemade face masks or massages. This intimate experience is a great way to relax and reconnect without leaving home.

 

Explore Romantic Experiences in Kyle

 

For those who wish to venture out and enjoy all that Kyle has to offer, here are some wonderful local options:

 

Dinner at a Local Gem

 

Kyle boasts several excellent dining spots perfect for a romantic evening. Try the sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere of Ilarios Italian Cuisine, where you can savor classic Italian dishes. For a more casual yet equally delightful experience, head to Hays City Store, known for its Texas comfort food and live music.

 

Stroll Through Lake Kyle Park

 

Lake Kyle Park offers a serene backdrop for a romantic stroll. Take in the natural beauty as you walk hand-in-hand along the trails or enjoy a picnic by the water. This peaceful setting is perfect for meaningful conversations and shared moments.

 

Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard 

 

Explore the nearby Duchman Family Winery in Driftwood, just a short drive from Kyle. This picturesque winery offers tastings of their award-winning wines in a stunning setting. Share a toast to your love while enjoying the scenic views of the Texas Hill Country.

 

Sweet Treats to Share

 

End your day with something sweet. Stop by Texas Pie Company for a slice of their famous pies or order a whole pie to share at home. Their decadent desserts are a perfect way to indulge together.

 

Unique Ideas to Spark Connection

 

Whether at home or out and about, here are a few additional ideas to make the day extra special:

  • Personalized Gifts: Exchange heartfelt gifts like a scrapbook of your favorite memories or a handwritten love letter. These personal touches mean more than any store-bought item.
  • Take a Class Together: Look for workshops or classes in Kyle, such as cooking, painting, or dancing. Shared experiences can be both fun and bonding.
  • Volunteer as a Couple: Spend the day giving back by volunteering at a local shelter or charity. Acts of kindness can strengthen your bond while benefiting the community.

 

Valentine’s Day is about cherishing the connections that matter most, whether through grand gestures or quiet moments of togetherness. With these ideas, you can create a day filled with love, joy, and elegance right here in Kyle, Texas.

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Blog Homeowner Tips Kyle Texas

Tips to Save Money on Moving

Most people wouldn’t describe moving as “fun.” More often, adjectives like “exhausting” and “stressful” come into play. A big reason behind the anxiety that comes with moving is money. 

 

Local moves will always be cheaper than moving from state to state, but from setting up utilities to packing supplies and fuel costs, many hidden expenses go along with moving. 

 

This doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t reduce expenses when moving. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind while planning your next move. 

 

Leave Stuff Behind

 

Okay, we don’t mean you should leave your prized possessions behind, but the less stuff you have to move, the cheaper it will be. Financial guru Dave Ramsey advises selling or getting rid of the things you’re not so attached to before loading up the moving truck. 

 

“Another way to save money on relocation costs is to sell some stuff!” Ramsey said. “We’re talking about that armoire you never found the right place for or that kayak that’s been gathering dust in your garage for years. Now’s the perfect time to get rid of that junk.”

 

Less stuff to move means less money spent on packing supplies and more money in your pocket once you move into your new home. 

 

Calculate Estimated Costs 

 

Columbus didn’t cross the Atlantic without calculating the supplies he would need, nor should he. A moving calculator will help you estimate the cost of getting from point A to point B based on the number of bedrooms you’re moving and the amount of furnishings you have. 

 

While it won’t provide an exact cost, it will help give you a rough idea of what kind of vehicle you’ll need and the fuel price. 

 

Pack Smart, Pack Cheap

 

Cardboard isn’t as cheap as you might think. Head to a packing store, and you could pay upwards of $20 per box! Don’t fret; there’s a solution. The earlier you plan your move, the more time you have to save useable boxes (and the bubble wrap) from various mail deliveries or friends or family who have boxes they no longer need. 

 

Another good option is to check sites like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for cardboard boxes people no longer want and are giving away. 

 

You can also help offset packing costs by wrapping more fragile items in clothes and towels. 

 

Move During Off-Season

 

Moving companies are busiest from May through August. This is when school is out, and students are moving back home and then heading off to school. If you can, try to move between September and April – preferably during the week for an even cheaper rate with a moving company. 

 

Ask the moving company to handle only the big furniture if you’re not moving far. If you can move the smaller boxes yourself, it’ll reduce the time it takes to move your stuff, saving you money. 

 

A lot of planning goes into a move, but once you step foot in your new place, all that hard work will be worth it. If you’re looking to move into your dream home soon, contact us to learn more about the Crosswinds community. 

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Design Homeowner Tips

Choosing the Right Furniture for your New Home

new home, real estate, moving and furniture concept - close up of male lifting up sofa or couch

Picture this: you are ready to pick furniture for your new home. You stroll into HomeGoods, prepared to make purchases, but you find yourself overwhelmed with choices. Though the cutest couch may be comfy and affordable, consider these four tips to help guide you! 

 

  1. Consider your space: Whether the room is spacious or on the small side, consider the overall space. Be sure to use a tape measure and measure the length and width of each room you plan to furnish. Measure each doorway to ensure plenty of space for moving pieces of furniture into the room.

 

By starting with this task, you can craft your dream floor plan with the furniture you have or pieces you hope to get! Plan to accommodate at least one yard between pieces of furniture so that people can move freely about the room. 

 

  1. Look for pieces that complement each other: The polka-dot ottoman with a plaid couch and a leather loveseat might have been perfect for college, but you may be looking to step up your game as a homeowner. Interior designers frown upon only going for pieces with the same colors and designs but encourage finding complementary patterns and shades.

 

Consider both the color of the walls and the floor when considering pieces. If you have dark wooden floors, aim for decor on the lighter side to provide some contrast. Find your personal style among all of these design tips!

 

  1. Start with the basics and build out: Once you decide on the room design, start with the basics each room will need before moving on to smaller pieces of furniture and accessories.

If you consider the bedroom layout, for example, start with where you like the bed to go, then add the dresser and nightstands! With the family room, consider the placement of the sofa initially, as it will probably be the largest piece, before factoring in smaller chairs, a TV, or end tables. 

 

  1. Choose a theme(s): Who doesn’t love a good theme? Traditional, modern, and casual are the top themes in furniture. Modern tends to incorporate sleek designs and materials like glass, steel, and plastic. Traditional is often more formal – think ornately carved wooden dining chairs. Casual is often the coziest of the styles: big cushioned sofas and recliners. 

 

Can’t decide which one is your favorite? Take your time and blend elements of the three if you have an eye for style. Whether you go for any combination of the three or select one and run with it, your new home will be a dream!

 

Style and functionality: It is a safe bet that a couple with three young children will probably consider different pieces of furniture than a bachelor. Style and functionality can live in harmony – so long as consideration is given to both. Look for pieces that are pleasing to your personal style but are also functional to your lifestyle. 

The last thing anybody wants is to bring a new piece of furniture home and discover that it isn’t quite right for your favorite space.

 

Hopefully, these tips will help you formulate a game plan to shop for the right furniture for your home. If you are ready to look for your dream home or have questions about furnishing a home in the Crosswinds master-planned community, contact us for more information. 

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Homeowner Tips Kyle Texas

Is now a good time to buy a new home in Central Texas?

It’s no secret that the Texas Hill Country has been a booming real estate scene for several years now. The growth in Austin has created a ripple effect and the outlying suburbs have also seen monumental growth with Hays County growing 53% in just the last decade. 

 

For a long time, this area was heavily a seller’s market, but industry experts are predicting a shift over the course of the next 12 months, bringing a bit more balance to the selling/buying equation. 

 

According to real estate platform Knock, the seller’s market hit its peak in April of 2022 and has been cooling off ever since. The real estate market is still hot, but buyers now have a better seat at the table, explained Knock CEO Sean Black. That’s why you no longer hear about bidding wars mere hours after a property goes on the market. “Sellers are more willing to take offers from buyers that are not asking or above,” said Black.

 

As of January 2023, the median home price in Hays County is $427,665, up 7% from last year, but still cheaper than the median home price in Austin. 

So to answer the question, is now a good time to buy a new home in Central Texas? 

Yes! And here are a few reasons why.

 

Big City Action, Small City Appeal

 

Kyle’s population is just over 51,000. This makes it a small city in the shadow of the much larger Texas capital. This isn’t a bad thing, however, on the contrary, it’s actually pretty appealing. Kyle residents don’t have to deal with the everyday traffic that comes with living in Austin, yet they’re only a half-hour’s drive if they want to head into the city for a concert or sporting event. With easy access to a major airport and the appeal of living in a smaller city, Kyle offers the best of both worlds. 

 

Jobs, Jobs, and More Jobs

 

While national news may stoke recession worries, Texans are sitting in a good spot. In fact, economists at the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas say that the state’s strong economy puts it in a good position to weather any economic troubles. The Lone Star state led the U.S. in job growth in 2023 and Central Texas was a huge part of that. Kyle sits in an ideal location for employees who commute into Austin, and its own economy is rapidly growing in the areas of manufacturing, logistics, and business services. 

 

Affordability

 

Texas not only enjoys a strong economy but an affordability that provides a comfortable lifestyle few other states can match. Housing expenses in Kyle are lower than the national average and lower than in many other parts of Central Texas. It’s this affordability factor that contributes to the appeal of Kyle and Hays County. 

If you’re currently on the hunt for a new home in Central Texas, then you owe it to yourself to look into the available homes at Crosswinds. This master-planned community currently has a variety of homes available and ready for quick move-in. Now isn’t just a good time to buy in Central Texas, it may be the best time. Contact the Crosswinds team to get started. 

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Kyle Texas Lifestyle

Local Patios to Enjoy this Spring

Have you been outside lately? The days are longer, the mornings are perfectly crisp, and the days are getting warmer. Although spring officially starts on March 20th, we’d say the season is in full swing — and this is prime patio weather. If you’re looking for a good patio to kick back and enjoy a bite or a refreshing drink in Kyle, consider checking out these local spots. 

 

Aviator Pizza: With an array of sandwiches, an impressive 50-beer draft selection, and specialty pizzas that are meant to be shared, it’s no surprise this pizzeria has multiple locations in the Hill Country. Head down to the Kyle location at 856 Kohlers Crossing and you’ll find several picnic tables under the pizzeria’s porch that are perfect for catching up with friends and enjoying some delicious pizza. 

 

The pizza joint’s owners have been making pizzas for over three decades, and use fresh ingredients, so you know whatever you order is going to taste great. 

 

Casa Garcia’s: A bowl of queso or chips and guac is pretty tasty wherever you eat it, but it seems to taste just a little bit better when enjoyed on a patio. Make your way to the Kyle location of this local chain at 5401 S. FM 1626 and grab a seat on the outdoor patio next time you have a craving for great Mexican food. 

 

The restaurant first opened its doors in 1999 and has become a staple in the area, serving up dishes like fajitas, chimichangas, enchiladas, and chicken mole. When paired with a margarita and the warm breeze of a spring day, outdoor dining doesn’t get much better. 

 

The Shady Llama: This spot might not be within the Kyle city limits, but if you’re looking for a unique bar where the locals might just nuzzle up to you, it’s worth the 20-minute drive to Wimberly. The outdoor beer and wine garden is a fantastic place to spend the afternoon with friends, and meet a few new friends of the four-legged variety (six llamas and two miniature donkeys call the bar home).

 

The bar offers a range of local craft brews on tap as well as several wines and non-alcoholic beverages, should you bring along the kiddos. Whether you choose to grab a seat at the outdoor bar, one of the patio tables, or by the fire pit, there isn’t a bad seat in the house when the sun starts to set over the Hill Country horizon. 

 

The Railhouse: Great food? Check. Cold drinks? Check. Live music? Check. The Railhouse is the sort of place where you’re bound to find a good time, no matter what night you stop by. The bar and music venue has a large outdoor space with picnic tables and plenty of room to get up and dance, or just sit back with a tasty drink and take in the scene. 

 

Something is happening nearly every night of the week, whether it be a band playing, a DJ, or a game of trivia. And with two food trucks on site, a delicious bite to eat is mere steps away from the patio area. 

 

Sometimes, the best place to enjoy patio weather though is right in your own backyard. The homes in the master-planned Crosswinds community were designed with comfortable living in mind and many feature spacious outdoor patios. Plus, as a resident of Crosswinds, you’ll have access to amenities for every season with walking trails, a community pool, parks, and picnic tables! Reach out to us to learn more and to start the journey to your dream home. 

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Events Family Fun Kyle Texas

3.14 National Pi Day in the Pie Capital of Texas

When it comes to celebrating Pi Day (the March 14 holiday honoring mathematical constant π) you could celebrate it in the math lab working out its never-ending sequence, but where’s the fun in that? A much more enjoyable way to celebrate the day is by partaking a slice of pie!

 

It just so happens that Kyle is the pie capital of Texas, making it a perfect place to celebrate Pi Day. 

 

Pie and Pirates

 

If you’re looking for an unconventional way to celebrate Pi Day in Kyle, then consider checking out the PIErate Treasure Hunt. This kooky scavenger hunt sends participants across the city in search of eight numbered treasure chests. This year’s locations are still a mystery, but last year’s locations included Gregg-Clarke Park, city trails, Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park, Waterleaf Park, Cool Springs Trail, and Steeplechase Park. We’re not saying those locations are going to have hidden chests this year, but it wouldn’t hurt to look. *wink*

 

Once participants do locate a chest, inside they’ll discover a clue, leading them toward the grand prize raffle of $314 (a nod to pi’s 3.14). The contest is open to all would-be treasure hunters and runs March 1 through 22. Best of luck! 

 

Pie and Pizza

 

Every great holiday involves food in the celebration and Pi Day is no different. If you’re looking to satisfy your craving for both sweet and savory pie, Kyle offers some great options. Consider grabbing lunch or dinner at Pizza Classics (118 S. Front Street). The pizzeria was voted “best pizza in Kyle” and has been around for decades. 

 

The staff makes their dough in-house each day, before topping the pies with fresh veggies and meats, whole milk mozzarella, and then sliding them in an “old school hearth oven.” The result is a truly out-of-this-world pizza that will have you reaching for another slice before you finish the first. 

 

After you’ve polished off a Pepperoni Lovers or Frito Pie Pizza, make your way over to the Texas Pie Company at 202 W. Center Street. Owner Julie Albertson has been baking pies since she was a child with her grandmother. We’re not sure if her pies officially qualify as “world famous” but they’re certainly “Texas famous” with newspaper and magazine clippings adorning the shop’s walls. Julie’s pies even got a recent shout-out on The Drew Barrymore Show!

 

Whether you choose to go with a slice of Southern Pecan, Lemon Chess, Chocolate Fudge, Peach, Dutch Apple, Blueberry, or one of the other flavors, you really can’t go wrong celebrating Pi Day at this local institution. 

 

Yes, when it comes to pie (or pi) and the city of Kyle, there are a range of fun and delicious options to choose from. It also just so happens that the mathematical holiday marks the halfway point to Kyle’s Pie in the Sky September celebration. So that’s yet another awesome event to look forward to and one of the many things that makes this city so great. 

 

If you’d like to find your own slice of paradise in Kyle, reach out to the Crosswinds team to learn more about this master-planned community. As a resident of Kyle, you’ll be close to all the best pies in the area, with family-friendly amenities, great schools, and high-quality homes from the area’s top builders. 

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Family Fun Kyle Texas

Spring Break Camps Near Kyle, TX

The temperatures are starting to warm up and it’s looking a little greener outside with each passing week. Spring is clearly in the air and spring break is just around the corner! The Hays CISD spring break runs March 13 through the 17 and is an ideal time for kids to get outside and have a little fun. 

 

If you’re sticking around for the break and are in need of something fun for the kiddos to do, check out these spring break camps in the Kyle area and everything they have to offer!

 

San Marcos Parks & Rec Spring Break Camp: This day camp is for children ages 5 to 11 and takes place March 13-17 from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The camp base is the Dunbar Recreation center and each day kids will get to participate in crafts and games, as well as go on nearby field trips. An afternoon snack is provided by the camp, but children will need to pack a lunch from home. Registration is $150 per child for San Marcos residents and $175 for non-residents. 

 

Spring Break Horseback Camp: Saddle up, campers because this spring break day camp is all about hitting the trails and literally horsing around. The day camp takes place from 10 AM to 3 PM at Sunny Fox Farms in Buda and is the perfect choice for any aspiring equestrians in your family. Kids will have the opportunity to learn bareback trail riding, jumping, and other riding skills in addition to participating in more typical camp activities such as crafts and water games.

 

The camp is open to children ages 5 to 15 of all riding skill levels, and registration is $450 per camper. Kids will need to bring a lunch, water bottle, and comfy change of clothes to change into after riding. 

 

Kyle Parks & Rec Spring Break Camp: Costing just $100 for the week and located right here in Kyle at Mary-Kyle Hartson Square Park, this camp can’t be beaten when it comes to convenience for parents. Day camp hours are 7:45 AM to 5 PM and include five days of action-packed activities for kids. During the week, children in 2nd through 9th grade will get to participate in crafts, fishing, archery, and other fun activities. Campers should bring a water bottle and pack lunch each day.

 

Gymnastics Spring Break Camp: If your child is looking to flip, tumble, and jump into some major fun, this day camp put on by Olympia Hills Gymnastics is a great choice. Located in Buda, the camp is for children ages 5 to 12 and runs from 7:30 AM to 6 PM. Registration is $57 for single days and $32 a day if your child is attending all five days. Campers are sure to burn off their energy with a range of fun gymnastics games and lessons each day.

 

There’s also no shortage of great day trips near Kyle that families can take advantage of during their spring break. With so much to explore within an hour’s drive, it’s no wonder so many people love the convenience Kyle offers. If you’d like to find a home here, reach out to the Crosswinds team.

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Family Fun

Caylor Forge Blacksmithing in Nearby Gruene

Working with metal to form a tool, otherwise known as blacksmithing, is one of the oldest trades that’s still utilized today. While there have been advances in the craft, today’s process of hammering hot iron to create a tool is not all that different from how it was done back in ancient Egypt. 

 

If you’re curious about the art of blacksmithing or simply want to learn something new, then you owe it to yourself to check out Caylor Forge & Leatherworks in nearby San Antonio and Gruene. 

 

A Family Business

 

Caylor Forge is run by the Caylor family and was founded in 2018. As told by Sabrina Caylor, the family didn’t have a lineage in the craft but discovered a passion for it as a hobby that later morphed into a family business. 

 

“We fell in love with it and trained with some of the most amazing blacksmiths I’ve ever met from all over the United States,” Sabrina said. 

 

The shop’s first location was set up in Gruene and is only “steps away” from the town’s original blacksmith shop that was in operation back in the 1800s. Surrounded by the history of Gruene, Caylor Forge is a chance for visitors to step back in time and get a glimpse of old-world craftsmanship, and even create something for themselves. 

 

Handmade Souvenirs (By You!)

 

One of the coolest things about a visit to Caylor Forge & Leatherworks is that visitors have the opportunity to try their hand at the craft and hammer out their own souvenir. A variety of pieces are available to make including copper bracelets, railroad spike bottle openers, and several types of knives. 

 

The blacksmithing process typically takes between 20 minutes and two hours depending on the piece being made, and prices start at $25. While walk-ins are accepted, making a reservation is advised.

 

Now if you’re ready to step up to something a little bit more intensive, the shop also offers one and two-day classes where participants will learn to make an heirloom-quality knife or a pipe tomahawk.

 

Shop and Sharpen

 

Even if sticking a piece of iron in hot coals and pounding it out on an anvil doesn’t sound like your typical fun afternoon activity, Caylor Forge is worth a visit. The shop offers some stunning handmade leather pieces such as briefcases, wallets, and journals, as well as beautiful housewares and jewelry. 

 

Of course, the highlight of the Caylor Forge shop is the handmade knives. With knives ranging from cleavers to medieval daggers, the shop offers blades both for function and eye-catching display. 

 

And if your knives are getting a bit dull, you can even take your old knives to the shop and they’ll sharpen them up for you. Just drop them off and they’ll let you know when they’re ready. Most knives can be sharpened and picked up the very same day. 

 

Being just a half-hour drive from Kyle, Caylor Forge is one of those small businesses that are perfect to check out on a weekend trip. 

 

To learn more about what makes Kyle such a wonderful location to live, play, and work in, and find your perfect home, contact the Crosswinds team.