Elexa Martinez

With a tween girl making sure we talk about all the things that have to do with the female body can be daunting to say the least. My daughter and I have so enjoyed reading these books together and they have really helped me to make sure I cover all the topics she needs to know about. I highly recommend these books and feel like they really are age appropriate for the recommended ages of the books. I find my daughter reading the books on her own and she has even gifted them to friends because she likes them so much. I feel she is as prepared for puberty as I can help her to be and these books have played a vital role.

We just had the new Blackberry and I am obsessed. It is not overly sweet and has a wonderful berry undertone while still tasting like cider. It is not dry and the blackberry is now my favorite of them all. Super easy to drink the whole 6 pack.

I use the Batiste Dry Volumizing Shampoo and it has been my go too for my thin hair. I prefer to put it in at night and do little spot spraying in the morning, it is a life saver as a busy mom.

These are my families go to gluten free cracker for homemade lunches, snacking and entertainment. They go so good on any meat and cheese board and are always in our pantry. The hint of sea salt is just the right amount. I prefer them over the original.

I love Canva for creating social media content, graphics, posters, flyers, and even party or event invitations. I have always found something to work well for my needs out of the free options. It is very easy to use and you don't have to be a graphic designer to make content with canva. I also really like the way you can customize your graphics to fit any social media platform which is very useful as a content creator or business owner, to have graphic sizes for each platform. It is definitely a must that I find myself using at least a few times a month if not more.

My kids really like he brownie Clif Kid Zbars. With my super picky eaters I know they are getting some nutrition while they are thinking they are having a treat.

My always go to staple for any outfit. They are my favorite kids shoes and my kids have always had a pair in every size since they were babies. They last so long. super comfortable and have so many style options the possibilities are endless.

Dashing Diva Nail strips are my favorite. They are super easy to apply and that is saying something if you have ever used nail strips before. I have found that they last me 12-18 days and hold up really well with how hard I am on my hands as a mom. I also really like that they come with so many and I can do my nails and my daughter's nails with one box and still have some left over. The color options are super fun and the boxes come with toe nail sizes as well. For being under $10 they have swiftly turned into my favorite go to nail wrap.

For a daily mascara, I use Essence Lash Princess false effect for just running around with the kids an and errands.

We have really liked our Graco Extend2Fit. It was much more affordable than the one we had for our oldest and my youngest rear faces till over 4 years and has always been comfortable. It is really easy to install as well and not super heavy considering its size.

With the Texas summers, investing in something for water family fun is a must. We have been extremely happy with our purchase last year of our Intex above ground pool, It was easy to manage when it came to treating the water. We refilled it about every 4-6 weeks. The whole family can fit in the pool and the kids have room for swimming fun. It was also just the right depth for our 4 year old who was just beginning to swim and big enough for our 8 year old to swim around as well.

When my kids were toddlers we had the Intex Dinosaur Inflatable Play Center and we loved it. It was pretty easy to maintain and had the water fall and slide and kept them super busy. We actually got this same pool 2 times. one for my oldest and then again for my youngest. They lasted about 2 summers each.

We bought an above ground pool last year and I found that the Intex Inflatable Sit n’ Float Pool Lounge was not too big and the kids could still play while I enjoyed the float and relaxation.

On days I am looking for a more dramatic eye I use the l'oreal telescopic mascara with the l'oreal telescopic primer. I usually get them at CVS or Ulta I always try to use a coupon at either place for them.

We buy Lafes’s deodorant stick Active Citrus & Beramot for our daughter, we have tried a lot for her and this is the one she really likes it.

Great addition for those zoom meeting, Instagram stories, Reels and speedy SM content creating. I like the 3 types of lighting options, the bendable stand that makes getting just the right angle and shot super easy. I have been impressed for the price.

We absolutely love our library here in Austin and the Libby app offers so many books and audio books. We literally us the libby app every day. The read alongs with my younger child that turn Epicture books into readalongs, the ebooks for chapter books on our iPad and then audio books in the evening before my kids go to bed. I like playing the many mindfulness books for kids and adults in the evenings as well as novels with my older child. We have been able to discover so much literature this way since here in Austin our libraries are still closed.

I have been using the LOreal Revitalift bright reveal brightening moisturizer sunscreen spf 30 for about 4 years now. It is my daily under makeup and is nice and light and doesn't break me out. I uses a lot of others before this one that did break me out.

My family loves Mad Matter. It is our go to sensory play product. It can be molded, squished, cut and it is easy to clean up. The reusable storage bad has kept ours fresh and good for well over 8-10 months. Not like others that won't last long. I feel like we get our money's worth and love to add little toys to it for more interactive fun.

I recommend Milani Conceal perfect 2 in 1 foundation. I have more combination skin but it holds up and isn't over drying for my dry areas. It is really full coverage and love how it photographs and is long wearing for a full day. I do add a hydrating spray and primer before but I am very happy with how good it is at it's price point.

I started using this when I struggled with not getting sleep after having kids. It has the perfect formula to help settle your mind and body and to be able to sleep. I really like the little bit of gaba in this that helps with settling the mind. Then the melatonin helps you fall a sleep and magnesium helps with relaxation it’s a great combination and is nice as a warm tea!

I have had this light for now over a year. It gives such great lighting and I love the bendable neck to get into any angle for all kinds of content creating being stills or videos and DIY photo sessions with family and friends. The versatility the little clicker gives with its bluetooth connection is so convenient. It is a bit top heavy so I have to be a careful having it up around the children but it is resilient and even though it has been nocked over a couple times, it still works like new and I do not see any damage.

I have been using these for years. I have an electrolyte deficiency and drinking these really helps me to stay hydrated and reduce the ache and pains of my deficiency. My favorite flavor is the Strawberry Lemonade.

I have a super picky eater. I have to supplement him with Orgain Organic Kids Nutritional Protein Shake in chocolate. We have noticed so much growth in his build alone with development growth.

My favorite brand with exact bra size is for sure Panache I got at Petticoat Fair, that bathing suit lasted me 4 summers and was totally worth the investment.

These are a staple for my family. These baked corn and rice puffs with real cheese are so delicious and my whole family enjoys snacking on them and they are perfect for school lunches as well.

Love this local Austin water company. The water is so good and the sparkling water is super bubbly. They help support the Austin community in so many different ways. I love supporting a brand that supports their community back.

We absolutely love our Samsung Aquajet top loader we have the dryer as well. It’s been almost 3 years and no problems. Cleans well and easy to use even the kids can do their own laundry. They were on the affordable side but not cheap.

We have been extremely happy with our Shark Navigator. It is easy and light enough for our kids to us. I also really like the rotating neck that helps to get into hard to reach places. We have a black lab and it keeps up with all the pet hair as well. The filter is easy to take out and wash. I also like the fact that it is bagless and not messy to dispose of dust and hair. For the price we are very happy with our purchase from 4 almost 5 years ago and have had no problems so far.

If your looking for a spicy grain free crunchy snack these were shockingly good. They have become a staple to have for snacks and with our lunches. We have found them at Sprouts and HEB locally.

Our go to grain free tortilla chip. With multiple members of my family having corn and gluten sensitivities we have found Siete Family Food products to be some of our favorites. We buy the super large bags at Costco and we use them for salsa, dips. hummus and on their own. They provide that perfect crunchy snack for those looking to stay away from gains.

With our family trying to stay away from grains and gluten we love having a taco shell option. Texans and we sure do love our crispy tacos and these crisp up so nicely in such a short period of time. I have even broken them up for tortilla soup and even taco salad toppings. We have found these at Whole Food, Sprouts, and HEB locally.

I got this at Costco and it had a comforter, quilt, and 2 shams & 2 quilted shams. We love ours and is a great deal!

We really love our Vitamix I have had it now for 7 years and still going strong. I have been even juicing with it over the passed few months and have now discovered a new way of using it. It is really worth the investment.

I have been addicted to Yellow Box flip flops for now over 10 years. The only flip flops I buy now. They are just the right amount of bling for your feet and the most comfortable flip flops around. I have had some last me 4-5 years with lots of hot summer wearing her in Texas.

This is our favorite trampoline park in Austin. My kids like the the variety of trampolines they have and I particular like that they have an area for smaller jumpers away from the larger jumpers.

Wonderful addition to the Barton Springs area. We finally made it out to the new restaurant and had a wonderful time. Of course the ciders were wonderful and we really enjoyed the new blackberry cider highly recommend on tap. The food was just as good. We had the hamburger and the cuban sandwich. The spicy mustard was everything on the cuban and the hamburger was so good and smothered with cheese. They had live music and we felt so safe with all the precautions they have implemented. I loved the vibe as it felt like little bit of old Austin super chill and yummy food that did not break the bank. Also free parking in the garage with your receipt and they also do offer a kids menu.

Austin is lucky to have Texas' biggest independent bookstore. A local staples this is my family's favorite bookstore to go to. Amazing programs, incredible selection with super friendly and informative staff. It is a most for any Austinite that loves to read.

Danielle and I worked on a visual arts project for our school. She came and provided the most delightful photos of the event. She had such a wonderful way with the student and parents. Her amazing photos were incorporated into a visual presentation for the student and the non profit we worked with. Her photos from this project have been used in their media and I know that the school will cherish the photographs that were taken that day. I know I do.

So so good every single time. The El Pastor is just the right combo of sweet and spicy and the homemade chipotle salad dressing on their super fresh salad is so unique and flavorful. I always add the shrimp and am stuffed. Love this local spot with a killer playlist and outside patio space for the kids.

This is my favorite little baby boutique. They were my go to for cute cloth diaper selections. When I had my kids I went to so many new mom events and classes here. They have a wonderful selection of unique baby wears.

I have known Haley for years. Her creativity, sweet disposition and talent makes her such an incredible newborn photographer. Her photos are timeless treasures.

Lucy's has been our families go to for costumes. We have found the most unique costumes for Renaissance festival, Halloween parties and also rental of big head costumes for birthday parties. They are a year round costume shop and a must stop on South Congress even if you are not looking for a costume. It is just a fun spot to go and explore.

Local long standing Austin tradition. Super fun 2 course option and BYOB. Peter Pan Mini golf is great for a unique date, a family afternoon or just fun with your friends.

We love their wonderful courtyard and family friendly environment outside. They have excellent coffee with a couple trailers for food options. They also have a nice beer and cider selection. The wifi can definitely be spotty at times depending on how busy and can be noisy inside if you're looking for a space to work.

Very nice spacious and clean. Great beer and cider selection mostly on tap with a wonderful patio space. They were one of the breweries that assisted locals during the winter storm. They have super friendly staff and are one of our south Austin go to breweries.

My family's go to for Indian food. Our favorites are the chicken and veggie pakoras, chicken veggie tikka masala, kabob salad and of course their mango lemonade that we can never get enough of. I really like how you can choose how spicy you want your dishes. They are vegan and gluten free friendly and offer an amazing kids menu that is almost enough for an adult. I have been to 3 different locations and have had the same quality of food and service in all 3. It is a must local restaurant spot.

Local and so delicious with great gluten-free bakery options. My family's favorite is the drunken noodles for a little spice and the pat sea ew for the family. Their employee model is commendable I like supporting local and sustainable business and this one is a gem.

We love spending some time creating Art at the Art Garage. My kids have really enjoyed the events they have hosted, along with drop in pottery painting and birthday parties doing tie dye. We have some pottery that have held up for over 6 years and look band new. You're not just having a good time but also creating treasures that will last.

The best affordable, fun and year round water play. The Splash Shack is a micro in door water park with super friendly staff that help the children with the waterslides. It is always clean in the restroom and locker rooms when we have gone. Only down side is no outside food but they do have good options in house. Perk is if your child is older you have the choice to watch or join in on the water fun. This place is my kids year round favorite.

Tiny Tails is my families go to for petting zoo. We love their tiny pets and have seen them all over Austin at book stores, libraries, birthday parties and holiday celebrations. They even began to offer virtual pets experiences throughout the pandemic for all us tiny pets lovers.

We have been going to Dr Norton for over 10 years. She knows us, respects us as parents, gives us our options and is always very thorough. She is super sweet with the children. I tend to stick with Dr Norton and Dr Ruize. I highly recommend them both. Have been to both locations and have had great experiences at both locations with these 2 doctors.

I have just had 2 lens replacement with Dr. McGlathery. I was very happy with how well he explained everything to me, better than any previous doctor over the passed 10 years. He gave me all my options, answered all my questions and concerns, He did a great job with both surgeries they went smoothly just like he explained it would go. I went from a -11 to -3 and have had no issues and I am very happy with the outcome.

We just love Dr Raymond and his amazing staff. We have been seeing Dr. Raymond for now over 7 years and have been very happy.

I have been using people's pharmacy for years. Their supplement selection is the best as far as quality and variety. Their staff is super knowledgable and friendly. The supplement prices are comparable to others and most times more affordable. They have a wonderful customer rewards program and I feel like I am always getting some kind of a discount when I go. I have been to multiple locations and have had he same quality of experience at all. If you are looking for compounding I was alway very happy with the speed of which they could provide me with my compounded medication. A wonderful locally owned business and great resource for the Austin Community.

When picking a piercing studio to pierce my daughter's ears I definitely wanted the best. The staff over at Diablo were great. She was 5 at the time and she did not even shed a tear. They were so gentle with her, considered how her ears would grow when determining the placement, showed her what they were doing to do, and she picked out her jewelry, which by the way they have a great selection. We were very happy and she has had no problems with her piercings at all, it has been 5 years.

I have had 2 tattoos done at Rock of Ages with Steve Byrne. He is fantastic. The shop is a great environment, very professional and clean.

They have done some lovely landscaping for our school and have been wonderful supporters of the community.

Thrifting is one of my favorite hobbies and Thrift Land in South Austin is my favorite thrift store. They are always my first spot when looking for unique sustainable styles and they offer different sales every day. You really can snag some great deals. They have the best children's book selection and we always find something great, like scholastic and very recognizable titles, to add to our home library. They are a cash only thrift store but they do offer an ATM right by check out. I have always found it clean and organized.

My daughter and I love to go hunting for vintage and second hand wears at Uptown. We particularly love their dollar days sales, where you can get so much for just $1. They always have something cute and trendy that I walk out with. They also do buy clothes and offer you money on the spot for what they are interested in. Love helping to keep things out of the landfill and finding a great deal.

Dirty Dog's Self service was our go to spot to wash and groom our Lab. We hated doing it at home, she was so big to do it in our tub and cleaning the tub after no one wants that. They have everything you need and its supper affordable. The staff was always sweet with us, our kids and pup.

We discovered Healthy Pet when we were looking for a natural way to treat our sweet lab with fleas. They provided us with the best solution we had ever used and were so extremely helpful that they became our #1 go to local pet store.

I have been to this location for years. My go to for massages. The environment is relaxation heaven and also their robes are really the best! The restrooms and locker rooms with showers are always clean and refreshing.

They are definitely one or my go to for a day of self care. I have enjoyed quality facials and massages the environment is so soothing and relaxing.

The best local toy store for kids of all ages. They really do have everything. Local Austin staple with super fun events and unique gifts. Its always a treat to go to Terra toys.

As a nanny and mom in ATX the Thinkery is a staple. My kids love the outdoor space as well as the water room. It can get crowded on the weekends but their programing and free community nights make it top of my families favorites.

We love love loved Faith for our preschooler!! We did Prek 3 and we had the absolute best teacher, the program was wonderful and so fun for our boy. We loved the playground, it is pretty epic. We were so sad to have a short end with the pandemic, but they were just amazing with the virtual content they provided. The teachers messaging the students and a wonderful end of the year send off. I honestly can't express more how happy we were at Faith they are just wonderful.

One of our favorite creative spaces to go to. Amber the owner is just amazing and what she has cerated for our children is just as amazing. What started as a preschool and art class program in her back yard that my daughter attended for a while. To now a whole center for STEAM based learning and birthday parties with pets on the property. My son and I loved the mommy and me preschool play times we attended. Figment also offers so much more with a preschool program, summer camps, classes, moms nights and homeschool programs just to name a few.

My go to for a coffee working spot. Great coffee, strong Wi-Fi, comfortable indoor and outdoor environment with easy access to plugs. I find this being my favorite working coffee spot in south austin.