As I sit down to compose my fourth gratitude post for the 2023 November challenge that, Debe Maxwell, CRS is so graciously hosting, my heart is brimming with thankfulness, especially for the vibrant city of Austin and the cherished traditions that bring my family together.Living in Austin is a daily source of gratitude for me, but this Thanksgiving, the festivities took on an extra special hue. One tradition that stands out is the Thundercloud 5K Turkey Trot, an annual extravaganza that transforms downtown Austin into a sea of energy and camaraderie. This year, a staggering 18,000 runners and walkers hit the streets at 9:30 AM, and I was right there with my family, soaking in the exuberant atmosphere.What made this Thanksgiving even more memorable was the presence of my granddaughters, ... 11/25/2023

O beautiful for spacious skies,For amber waves of grain,For purple mountain majestiesAbove the fruited plain!America! America!God shed His grace on thee,And crown thy good with brotherhoodFrom sea to shining sea!O beautiful for pilgrim feetWhose stern impassioned stressA thoroughfare for freedom beatAcross the wilderness.America! America!God mend thine ev'ry flaw,Confirm thy soul in self-control,Thy liberty in law.O beautiful for heroes provedIn liberating strife,Who more than self their country loved,And mercy more than life.America! America!May God thy gold refineTill all success be nobleness,And ev'ry gain divine.O beautiful for patriot dreamThat sees beyond the yearsThine alabaster cities gleamUndimmed by human tears.America! America!God shed his grace on thee,And crown thy good wit... 11/23/2023

If you're a devoted Longhorn fan who tuned into Friday night's showdown against Texas Tech, you're undoubtedly basking in the glory of Austin's exuberant celebration following the resounding 57-7 victory. This triumph not only served as sweet redemption for last year's upset by Texas Tech but also solidified the Longhorns' dominance on the field.  The top of the UT Tower shined with burnt orange lights Friday, November 24 to celebrate Texas Football’s victory over Texas Tech. Having acquired two #1 jerseys with “Worthy” on the back for Hudson and Beckett at the beginning of the season, it turned out to be a timely investment, in light of the team's recent triumph. The crowd always chants “Go Worthy” because of the performance of Xavier Worthy, the third-year wide receiver who moves wit... 11/26/2023

Matthew McConaughey, a prominent figure both on and off the screen, is a familiar face at UT football games, where he passionately engages with fans from start to finish. Hailing from Uvalde, Texas, McConaughey earned his Bachelor of Science in Radio Television Film from UT and now resides in Austin with his wife, Camila, and their three children, making him a notable member of the community. Beyond his roles as a husband and father, McConaughey is celebrated as an actor and serves as a Master of Culture Professor at UT.   In 2019, he expanded his involvement in the Austin community by becoming a minority owner of Austin FC, a Major League Soccer team that has enjoyed significant success since its debut in 2021.             McConaughey, an accomplished author, shared his insights and e... 11/27/2023