skrapnel

Chris chats it up with the Squirrel Lady of Town Lake

The Reverend Julie Gallagher, aka the Squirrel Lady of Town Lake, was one of the most interesting people we’ve encountered on South Congress. Her art, fun photos of squirrels, promotes peace. We couldn’t include all of our interview in August’s First Thursday video, so I’ve posted the full, unedited version here.

In  the video, she explains the peace banner, talks a little about Mayan cosmology, and tells us about her favorite squirrel (a refugee from Hurricane Katrina).

Check it out!

At Republic of Austin, I meet so many great artists, musicians and business owners, but not all the footage makes the final cut.  I like to post some of the out takes on here so that readers can see some of the raw footage.

This video [Click here to see the final post and video about First Thursday on Republic of Austin] features Erin and Jacob Boone, newlyweds and owners of my favorite food trailer on South Congress, Mambo Berry.  Jasmine and I have also dubbed them one of the hottest couples in Austin.  Their both super sweet and smart, too.  They also both make some kick-a frozen yogurt.

In the video, Erin and Jacob explain why their Frozen Yogurt is different than the other shops around the city.  Since they use local yogurt and add probiotics, it’snot only healthier, but it’s better for the environment and our local economy. Oh, and it tastes like yogurt, not ice cream!

My brother, his wife and I went to First Thursday on South Congress last night.

Mike and Vanessa at First Thursday

Walking distance from my house, First Thursday is when the shops and galleries in SoCo stay open late, serve beer and have live music. It reminds me of Europe; the cafes spilling out onto the sidewalk. Everyone having a good time as the sun sets, sky  painted with crazy pinks and oranges.

First Thursday at Guero's

In one of the stores, I stumbled across a pair of combat boots that looked like they could be from the turn of last century. I’d been looking for a pair of boots like this, but thought I’d have to settle for some used Doc Martins. Luckily I found these AND they were 40% off!

New Boots

Here’s a professional photo:

Campbell Boots by Ryan Rowe

It’s official: I’ll be moving to Austin at the end of this month.  Peep this image, courtesy of Google Streetview, of the new digs in Austin’s Travis Heights neighborhood.  I’ll be sharing the place with some old friends.

My new house in Austin