Ongoing

211 Texas is your information and referral resource for health services, food and clothing, housing, child, youth and family and elder services, education, employment, community groups, counseling and support groups, recreation and government resources, and much more. Information is free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We speak Spanish, too. For more information, call 973.9203 or visit www.unitedwaycapitalarea.org/gethelp.

Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Austin Chapter, Support Groups are held throughout Austin and surrounding areas on various days and times. For more information, call 241.0420 or visit www.alz-austin.org.

American Cancer Society’s Support Groups Several support groups are offered for issues such as bone marrow, breast cancer, dialogue support groups and life after loss. For more information, call 919.1866.

Angel Valley Organic Farm Buy directly from the farm on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and enjoy a pretty drive out past Lago Vista. Or come out Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located at 11713 Jollyville Road or visit www.angelvalleyfarms.com.

Anger Management Classes This 10-week series is held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Austin Men’s Center. For more information, call 445.7946.

Applying New Attitudes and Directions. If you are affected by anorexia nervosa or bulimia, this discussion group focuses on providing a place to meet and talk with others experiencing similar problems. Meetings are every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Insight Center. For more information, call 469.7678.

Aussie’s Bar and Grill Volleyball Tournaments. Aussie’s has ongoing tournaments, including women’s, men’s and coed “A” and “B” divisions and more. For more information, call 480.0952.

Austin Ballroom Dancers invites people of all ages who enjoy Latin, swing and smooth dancing to classes and weekly dances. Partners aren’t required at the smoke- and alcohol-free events. Classes are held Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and from 8:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. at Hancock Recreation Center, located at 811 E. 41st St. Dances are Saturdays from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Senior Activity Center, located at 2874 Shoal Crest. The cost is $8, or $5 for students and members. For more information, call 989.3939 or visit www.austinballroomdancers.org.

Austin Children’s Museum“Storytime” is presented every Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. The cost is free with admission to the museum.

Austin Epilepsy Support Group This support group for epilepsy patients, their families and friends meets the second Tuesday of every month from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Brackenridge Hospital, located at 601 E. 15th St., in the second floor conference room. For more information, call Nikki at 413.1596.

Austin Farmers Market is in downtown’s Republic Square Park at Fourth and Guadalupe streets. Growers and vendors will sell seasonal, locally grown produce, including vegetables, fruits, flowers, dairy products, baked goods and ready-to-eat foods, as well as crafts and local arts. The market will also feature cooking demonstrations, educational programs and live music. It’s open Saturdays from 8 a.m. until noon through Nov. 22. For more information, visit www.austinfarmersmarket.org.

Austin Fit Marathon Training Register for the Austin Fit Marathon Training Program. The success rate of those who complete the program and enter and run the marathon is outstanding! For more information, call 703.6596 or visit www.austinfit.com.

Austin Floorball Club This fast-paced, Scandinavian sport resembles a cross between floor hockey and indoor soccer. A basic floorball stick is provided; all you need is a pair of sneakers. The Austin Floorball Club is committed to fun, friendly, noncompetitive floorball play. For playing times and locations, or for more information, e-mail austin_floorball@yahoo.com or call 477.5566, ext. 1219.

The Austin Fly Fishers meet the third Thursday of each month in the Austin Northwest Recreation Center, located at 2913 Northland Drive. Fly fishing begins at 6 p.m. with a general meeting beginning at 7 p.m., followed by announcements and a speaker. For more information, call Constance Whiston at 916.4393.

Austin Meditation Center Enjoy bhakti yoga with a vegetarian dinner and lecture Sundays from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., along with mantra meditational techniques for calming the mind and controlling the senses. Classes are always free for children, teens, adults and community groups. Mantra meditation is also offered, providing simple techniques to calm the mind and control the senses. Yoga for all levels is offered Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Fridays from 5:45 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Yoga for children is Sundays from 3:45 p.m. to 4:25 p.m. for ages 4 to 8, and 4:30 p.m. to 5:20 p.m. for ages 8 to 12. For the mindful, check out Yoga Philosophy on Tuesdays from 7:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. The first class is free but registration is required. For more information, call 472.YOGA or visit www.austinmeditation.org.

Austin Outdoor Gear Kayaking Classes offered include introduction, flat water, moving water, whitewater and coastal. For more information and the current schedule, call Wilderness Supply at 476.3712.

Austin Paddling Club is for beginners, intermediates and experts, as well as river, lake and ocean paddlers. Meetings are held monthly every second Thursday at 7 p.m. For more information, call 448.5171.

Austin Rugby Football Club welcomes all to join the exciting game of New Zealand coaches division-one rugby. The practice location is at the Burr Field Complex, located at 6013 Loyola Lane. For more information, call Abel at 736.7609.

Austin Runners’ Club meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month at Run-Tex south. Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Duncan Park, there is a social run for anyone interested in running with a group. Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. come out to the MoPac footbridge on Town Lake for the midweek social scamper. For more information, call 301.4245, 922.7828 or visit www.austinrunnersclub.org.

Austin Sierra Club The general meeting is held the first Tuesday of each month at the LCRA Hancock Building, located at 3700 Lake Austin Blvd. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; the program starts at 7 p.m. For more information, call 305.6296.

Austin Triathletes Club meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at Matt’s el Rancho, located at 2613 South Lamar Blvd. (just north of Manchaca and south of Oltorf). For more information, call 499.4633 or visit www.austintriathletes.org.

The Basic Essentials of Health This free program is for individuals who are interested in learning wellness for the entire family and is presented monthly at Northcross Shopping Center. For more information, call 451.6626.

Bhagavad-Gita Ongoing classes are held on Tuesdays from 7:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. and include meditation. Classes are free. The Austin Meditation Center is located at 2307 Rio Grande St. For more information, call 472.9642.

Boggy Creek Farm Shop the farm stand during Market Days for T.D.A.-certified organic vegetables, flowers and herbs. The market is open year-round on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The farm is located two and a half miles east of downtown, at 3414 Lyons Road. For more information, visit www.boggycreekfarm.com.

Bone Marrow Support Network The bone marrow stem-cell transplant support network, cosponsored by the American Cancer Society and the Southwest Regional Cancer Center, is an ongoing service for current cancer patients and survivors. Patients undergoing bone-marrow or stem-cell transplants are able to receive information and have direct contact with others who have experienced the procedure. For more information, call 421.4100.

Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are for breast cancer patients only and take place on the fourth Tuesday of every month from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call Eva Villanueva at 919.1886.

Cancer Support Group Meetings are open to people with cancer, their families and friends the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Brackenridge Hospital on the ninth floor. For more information, call 324.7994.

Central Texas Division of the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition meets the first Tuesday of each month at Riverbend Church, located at 4214 Capital of Texas Highway in classroom 3B. For more information, visit www.ovarian.org or call 1 (888) OVARIAN. Chaparral Ice offers a free one-time “Learn to Skate” class every Saturday at 12:15 p.m. and 1 p.m. for ages 6 and older, including adults. This is a great opportunity to advance to one of their beginner programs. For more information, call 252.8500 or visit www.chaparralice.com.

Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure Screening This screening is $32 and takes place the second Thursday of each month at Seton Medical Center, located at 1201 W. 38 St., from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Appointments are required. For more information, call 324.3162.

Climb Like a Girl. In the spirit of women and adventure, whether a veteran or a beginner, come experience the thrill of indoor climbing at R.E.I. each Tuesday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Come join the women of Austin who enjoy this ever-growing sport. It’s free if you own your own shoes or you can rent a pair from our rental department for a small price. The first two Tuesdays of every month are for women 18 and older. The last two Tuesdays are for women 18 or younger. R.E.I. is located at 9901 Capitol of Texas Highway North. For more information, call 343.5550.

Colorado River Walkers meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of every month, at the Lower Colorado River Authority cafeteria, located at 3701 Lake Austin Blvd. For more information, visit www.io.com/~zenteer/crw/index.html.

Diabetes Support Group offers coping skills for the physical and emotional implications of the disease. It meets every Friday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Seton East Community Health Center. For more information, call 324.4930.

Eco-detective Trail Walk the trails at the Austin Nature Center, located at 301 Nature Center Drive, Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, call 327.8180.

Eternal Way Center Wednesday meditation services and lectures are held from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at 1122 S. Lamar Blvd. For more information, call 445.1080 or visit www.eternalway.org.

Exercise for New Moms This class, taught by a certified instructor, gets your body back in shape with low-impact, high-energy aerobics. Babies up to eight months are welcome. New participants may begin at any time. The class is at Seton Northwest Health Plaza on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Preregistration is required and costs $30 for 10 sessions or $5 per session. For more information, call 324.4450.

Finding Happiness from a Different Source Enjoy a meditation and class on integrating Buddha’s teachings into your daily lives with Western Buddhist nun Gen Kelsang Dekyi at Chittamani Buddhist Center. Classes will take place on Thursdays at 7:30 p.m. Donations are accepted. For more information, call 916.4444 for a free brochure or visit www.meditationinaustin.org.

Family Program with Western Buddhist nun Kelsang Dekyi Bring along the children for meditation instruction and class on “What Buddha taught” at the Chittamani Buddhist Center, located at 2919 Manchaca, Ste. 102A. Donations are accepted. Classes are held on Saturdays at 12:30 p.m. For more information, call 916.4444 or visit www.meditationinaustin.org.

4H Club Shooting Sports. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at Austin Outdoor Gear & Guidance, located at 3411 N. Interstate Highway 35. For more information, call 476.3712.

Guided Historic Walking Tours Discover downtown historic treasures on foot during guided weekend tours of the Capitol grounds and the Bremond Block, Thursday through Sunday. For more information, call 478.0098.

Hatha Yoga Classes are based on 12 basic postures emphasizing concentration, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques designed to integrate body, mind and spirit. The focus is on yoga as a holistic, spiritual lifestyle. Everyone is welcome. Classes meet Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and Mondays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. at Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church, located at 3315 El Salido Pkwy. For more information, call 388.1162 or visit www.yogaadvaita.org.

Hiking Tour Enjoy scenic views along the unique rock formations of Hueco Tanks, located in El Paso or Big Bend County, on an upper or lower-level hike. Tours last a minimum of two hours and begin at 9 a.m., 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. each Sunday. Reservations are required. For more information, call (915) 849.6684.

Holographic Repatterning These group healing sessions are designed to free us from fear and limitations and empower us to create our dreams. Ongoing classes are held Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Private sessions are also available. Each session is $24. For more information call Nancy at 447.1879 or visit dakini@texas.net.

Mantra Meditation Simple techniques help you gain more control of your mind and senses and find satisfaction within. These classes are for adults, children, schools and community groups and are always free. For more information, call the Austin Meditation Center at 472.9642.

Meditation for Children and Teens Simple meditation techniques allow your child to be more in control of his or her mind and senses and to find self-acceptance. Classes meet every Friday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Parents are encouraged to learn too and classes are always free. Special school programs are also available. For more information, call the Austin Meditation Center at 472.9642. Movin’ Easy Dancewear. Our danceline is a great resource for anyone. Updated weekly, the voice recording contains current information on dance events, workshops, performances, upcoming classes and job opportunities. The danceline number is 416.5700, code 3262. You can also sign up for our monthly e-mail newsletter, which lists performances for the month. E-mail mktgeasy@swbell.net to sign up.

Northwest Recreation Center Nooner Basketball Get in shape and have fun playing basketball during your lunch hour every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Northwest Recreation Center, located at 2913 Northland Drive. There is a $2 fee for drop-ins. For more information, call 458.4107.

Oasis Gardens Farmstand A short trip out of central Austin takes you to a new organic farmstand. The produce is vibrant and wonderful with cabbage, broccoli, fresh greens and Brussels sprouts. The stand is open Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to noon and is located at 7516 Delway Lane east of Highway 183. For more information, visit www.greenbuilder.com/oasisgardenscsa.

Optimal Health Institute of Austin holds its open house every Sunday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Come and enjoy the beautiful property, learn about our program and be our guest for dinner. For more information, call 261.5367. Outdoor Adventures: A Component of the University of Texas at Austin’s Division of Recreational Sports. Register for a variety of instructional and recreational outdoor events such as backpacking, biking, canoeing, outdoor rock climbing, kayaking, hiking and rafting. U.T. affiliation is not required. For more information, call 471.3116.

Overeaters Anonymous (O.A.) Compulsive overeaters are invited to attend one of two new weekly meetings of OA. We’re not a diet club and there are no dues, fees or weigh-ins. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively. Members seek recovery on three levels, following a 12-step program modeled after Alcoholics Anonymous. Saturdays from 11 to noon we meet at 10010 Anderson Mill Road, Bldg. D, room 205, and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. we meet at Hyde Park Presbyterian Church located at 3913 Ave. B. For more information, call 327.2802.

Pflugerville Panda Bears is a start-up sports exercise group for Austin-area folks around 35to 45 years old (and their friends and family). Interested in softball in the summer, soccer in the fall or basketball in the winter? Give John Raymond a call at 990.2624 or visit www.pflugervillepandabears@yahoo.com.

Protect Your Back: A Proven, Effective Back Injury-Prevention Program Allow the American Red Cross to give you a hands-on, practical course. For more information, call 928.4271.

Qigong These Chinese self-healing classes are offered at Clear Spring Studio, located at 3918-C Far West Blvd., from 9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. every Tuesday. The cost is $32 for four weeks. For more information, call 266.7926.

Run-Tex Training Run-Tex sponsors training sessions starting at 5:45 p.m. around Town Lake’s south shore beginning at Run-Tex, located at 422 Riverside Drive. The workouts are free and accommodate all levels of runners. The Monday and Wednesday workouts are for the more advanced crowd. Tuesdays and Thursdays are for beginner and intermediate runners. For more information, call 472.3254.

She Climbs Rock Climbing Club An all-female rock climbing club, our goal is to “put women on rocks” through a caring and supportive environment. We have weekly outings on Thursdays and monthly potlucks. The potlucks are every third Sunday of the month at 6 p.m. For more information, call 926.0941 or visit www.sheclimbs-Austin.org.

Sierra Club Running/Walking Group Meetings are held every Sunday at 8 a.m. (all year long) beginning at the steps of the Austin High School tennis courts. One hour of exercise is followed by a breakfast/social hour at a nearby restaurant. For more information, call Merle Miller at 445.6223.

Skating, Hockey and Ringette Registration is currently being held at Chaparral Ice. Call to find out about the next “learn to skate in a week” class: 252.8500 or visit www.chaparralice.com for more information.

Spiritual Principles and Relationships is an ongoing weekly, one-hour program designed to give you the tools to create empowering relationships and a deeply meaningful life. The suggested donation is $7 and all adults are welcome. Classes are Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at the Eternal Way Center, located at 1122 S. Lamar Blvd. Call Michael Biles for details at 477.1119.
Sports Safety Training. This six-and-one-half-hour workplace program is offered through the American Red Cross, or your training facility, and features video and classroom instruction. For more information, call Mary Edwards at 928.4271, ext. 239. STAR: Seniors in Training and Recreation Program. This program features guest speakers discussing health- or fitness-related topics and begins at 11:30 a.m. the final Thursday of each month at The Hills Fitness Center, located at 4615 Bee Caves Road. For more information, call 327.4881.

Stop the Week Wind down after a busy week. Learn to meditate, chant prayers and relax, followed by food and drink at the Chittamani Buddhist Center, Fridays at 6:30 p.m .The center is located at 2919 Manchaca, Ste.102A (at S. Lamar Blvd.). For more information, call 916.4444 or visit www.meditationinaustin.org.

Stumpy Hollow Nature Hike Take a guided nature hike through the trails of Inks Lake State Park from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Saturday. Bring good walking shoes, water and a hat. Meet at the parking lot across from the park office. For more information, call (512) 793-2223.

T’ai Chi Ch’uan T’ai chi is a choreographed set of martial art postures that are designed to increase one’s power and agility. This exercise helps improve range of motion and lung capacity, placing special emphasis on balance. Participants can enjoy reduced stress and a feeling of well-being. The cost is $36 for six weeks and reservations are recommended. Classes take place every Monday at The Human Potential Center, located at 2007 Bert Ave. For more information, visit www.humanpotentialcenter.org or call 441.8988.

Trail Maintenance Volunteers are invited to the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve to help us repair portions of trails, control erosion and make our trails safe for everyone to enjoy. For more information, call 327.7622 or e-mail to hike@wildbasin.org.

Travis Audubon Society meets monthly every third Thursday at 7 p.m. at Camp Mabry, building 82. For more information, call 926-8751.
Tri-Fit Triathlon Training. Are you looking to fine-tune your swimming, biking or running skills, complete your first triathlon or just balance your fitness routine? Then train to be tri-fit! Learn the latest triathlon-training techniques in one of Ironsmith’s highly personalized classes. All ability levels are welcome. Class fees include access to our state-of-the-art fitness facilities during the duration of the course and the tri-fit training handbook. Preregistration is required. Call 454.4766 or visit www.fitnessdoctors.com.

Volksport, Volksmarch, or Volkswalk Although you’re likely not familiar with these terms, this activity started in Europe, as the names might suggest. This group hosts noncompetitive walking events that you start when you’re ready within a three- or four-hour window. Each walker receives a map of the route and walks the length of their choice. For more information, visit www.walktexas.org.

Vegetarian Dinner, Meditation and Lecture is held every Friday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Austin Meditation Center, located at 2307 Rio Grande St. The suggested donation for dinner is $3. Call 472.9642 or visit www.austinmeditation.org.

Walking Wild Cave Tour Take a guided tour to the large and interesting Gorman Cave. The hike includes a beautiful three-mile, round-trip hike over hill country terrain. Good hiking shoes and a flashlight are required. Please, no children under 6. Walks are held every Saturday and Sunday, weather permitting, from 9:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The cost is $10 per person and reservations are recommended. For more information, call (325) 628.3240.

Westlake Farmers Market Browse booths of more than 35 vendors selling fresh, organic vegetables, fruits and much more. The market is open year-round, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the parking lot of Westlake High School, located at 4100 Westbank Drive, between Loop 360 (Capital of Texas Highway) and Bee Caves Road. For more information, call Pamela Boyar at 280.1976 or visit www.WestlakeFarmersMarket.com.

Wild Basin Preserve Tours are available including special tours occasionally offered during the weekend. Call for meeting times. The preserve is located at Loop 360, one mile north of Bee Caves Road. For more information, call 327.7622 or visit www.wildbasin.org.
Wild Basin Tour-Guide Training. If you would like to learn the wild plants, animals and geology of the Central Texas Hill Country, stop by the Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve any Wednesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon for your free certification. For more information, call 327.7622.

Wild Goose Qigong Qigong (sometimes spelled “Chi Kung”) is a type of exercise developed in ancient China. It combines physical and mental techniques to increase and circulate one’s “qi” or internal energy. Wild Goose Qigong uses the flowing and graceful movements of geese. Classes are held each Monday at The Human Potential Center, located at 2007 Bert Ave. There is a fee of $5 and reservations are recommended. For more information, call 441.8988 or visit www.humanpotentialcenter.org.

Women’s Roadrunner Hockey meets at Chaparral Ice on Sundays from 11 a.m. to noon. New and experienced players are invited. The eight-week session costs $130. For more information, call Leslie at 252.8500.

The Wright House Wellness Center Long Term Survivors is for anyone who has known their HIV diagnosis for six years or more. The support group meets in eight-week sessions every Monday night at 6 p.m., and is facilitated by a licensed psychologist. The group is free to all clients of the Wright House Wellness Center. “Wednesday Wellness” is a support group for anyone who has known their HIV diagnosis for five years or less. For more information or to become a client, call The Wright House Wellness Center at 467.0088.

Yoga at McKinney Roughs Reduce stress using breathing techniques and stretching exercises to improve relaxation, flexibility, strength and concentration. Classes cost $10 per visit and are held every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. The first visit is half price. For more information, call 303.5073.

Yoga and Meditation for Children Classes for children 4 to 10 are held every Sunday at the Austin Meditation Center from 3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m. The first class is free. Reservations are required. For more information, call 472.YOGA (9642).

Yoga and Meditation for Teens This class is for ages 11 to 16 and is held on Sundays at the Austin Meditation Center from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. The first class is free. Reservations are required. For more information, call 472.YOGA (9642).

Yoga Philosophy This free class is held on Tuesdays from 7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Austin Meditation Center. Reservations are required For more information, call 472.YOGA (9642).

Yoga for Your Life, Especially for Seniors Classes are held Mondays and Wednesdays at Café Dance Studio, located at 3307-B Hancock Drive, from noon to 1 p.m. For more information, call 459.8066.

Throughout December
Exhibit: Love’s Messenger: Courtship in the Victorian Age. Every Friday through Sunday at Sebastopol House in Seguin, the exhibit will explore how late 19th century men and women expressed their emotions and affections toward each other. Fee is $2 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under. For more information, call 830.379.4833

Healthy Lifestyle Series. FREE workshop offered every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Topics covered are: Dec. 1, Headaches and Migraines; Dec. 8, Fibromyalgia; and Dec. 15, How To Beat Chronic Fatigue. The workshop is provided by Dr. Michele K. Gerard D.C. and held at Chiropractic Arts Center of Austin, P.C. located at 4131 Spicewood Springs Rd. #L-3. Please call by Tuesday prior to making reservations: 346.3536.

Wild Cave Tour. Every Saturday join the Texas Parks and Wildlife to explore the caverns the way the early spelunkers did. Our experienced guide will take you to primitive parts of the cave not seen on the regular walking tour. You will crawl, climb and scoot through tight spaces. Special equipment, hardhat, flashlight, elbow and kneepads required for this tour. You may bring your own or rent the whole package from us for $15. It lasts from 3:15 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. The fee is $35 per person. Reservations required: call 877.441.2283 or 756.4680.

December 1
North Austin Mothers Club Meeting. If you have young children and you’re looking for some friends for you and your kids, fun stuff to do and some grown-up conversation, the Club is just what you need. Whether you’re new to town, new to motherhood, new to staying at home or you’re just looking to expand your circle of friends, we have a range of playgroups and activities available to our members. We’d love to have you come visit the Club and hopefully become a member too! The event is at 9:30 a.m. For more information, call 528.1987.

December 2
Your Ideal Relationship. Most of us spend years searching for satisfying relationships, and the results are often less than we might hope for. We may have overlooked the all-important first step: becoming clear about what we really want. This workshop with The Human Potential Center provides valuable tools for identifying traits we desire in a partner, and suggestions on how to build fulfilling relationships using these newfound insights. Free. From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visit www.humanpotentialcenter.org for more information.

December 3 to 5
16th Annual YMCA Children’s Christmas Party. Dec. 5 we are celebrating our 16th year to ring in the holiday season for children and families. Kids of all ages will enjoy games, food, holiday arts and crafts, inflatables, face painting, music and a visit with Santa. Every child will receive a free wrapped gift and a chance to tell Santa their secret dreams for Christmas. From 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. come to the Austin Music Hall for this FREE event, open to the public. For more information, e-mail dawn.mallory@austinymca.org or call 542.9622.

ABC’s of International Adoption. On Dec. 4, a Dillon representative will give an overview of adoption from China, Guatemala, Haiti, India, South Korea, Ukraine, Vietnam and a pilot program in Kazakhstan. The meeting will be at Yarborough Library, 2200 Hancock Drive from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Established in 1972, Dillon International, a Tulsa, Oklahoma-based, licensed, non-profit adoption agency — with branch locations in Wichita, St. Louis, Little Rock, Richmond and Fort Worth ­— has placed over 5,000 children with families throughout the United States. For more information, call 467.9177.

The Austin Gem and Mineral Society’s Gem Capers. From Dec. 3 to Dec. 5 come to the show at the Crockett Center, 6301 Hwy. 290 East. It’s a gem and mineral show that includes jewelry, beads, gemstones, mineral specimens, crystals, fossils and lapidary equipment with more than 30 vendors. For more information, call 458.9546.

Capitol Tree Lighting and Downtown Stroll. On Dec. 4 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. join the Austin Downtown Alliance and KUT as they sponsor this holiday festival which includes a stroll along the north stretch of Congress Avenue with galleries, boutiques and restaurants offering live music, entertainment and free food to their guests. At dusk, the holiday tree is lit as the sing-along begins.

Chinese Golden Dragon Acrobats. On Dec. 4 at the Paramount Theatre, they tumble, they juggle, they fly through the air! See amazing feats of athleticism, artistry and daring in this colorful, gasp-inspiring show. For more information, call 469.SHOW.

Introduction to Tai Chi: A Healing Movement Weekend Retreat. At Omega at the Crossings, Heloise Gold host from Dec. 3 to 5. Tai chi is an ancient Chinese form of movement meditation that benefits the whole person — physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritual. In this introductory workshop with longtime tai chi and qigong instructor Heloise Gold, we learn the yang style tai chi form with a focus on creating a simple practice we can take home and incorporate into our daily lives. With a light-hearted and gentle approach, Gold encourages us to develop the ability to listen within as we also learn a number of walking meditations and qigong exercise — for energy cultivation and management — that help to release tension and connect us to the natural healing forces of the universe. Throughout the weekend, Gold shares inspirational teachings from Taoism, the ancient Chinese wisdom tradition that emphasizes balance and interconnectedness. No previous experience in tai chi or qigong is necessary. Gold has been teaching tai chi for 25 years through workshops and retreats in the United States and Europe. She also runs a tai chi and movement arts studio in Austin, Texas and is a permanent faculty member of The Academy of Oriental Medicine in Austin and of Rose Mountain Retreat Center in New Mexico. Also a choreographer and performance artist, Gold has been producing and performing her original dance-theater pieces for the past 30 years. For more information visit www.eomega.org.

New to Austin? Or just feel like you are? Be sure to attend the Shalom Austin Newcomer Schmear and Schmooze! Sunday, Dec. 5 at 11 a.m. in 150-C of the Community Hall come to the JCAA to learn about everything the Austin community has to offer. You’ll be able to meet, mingle and connect with other Community members! And, enjoy free bagels and cream cheese! For more information visit www. jcaaonline.org or call 735.8040.

December 6
Balancing Hormones Naturally. From 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., the Austin Quan Yin Center will be holding a free workshop entitled “Balancing Hormones Naturally.” American women today are being bombarded with information about Hormone Replacement Therapy, Bio-Identical Hormones, “natural cures” for PMS, menopause and infertility. Confused? Want the facts? Come to this free interactive workshop and learn how stress, diet, metabolism and pain can affect your hormones and learn how natural, non-drug alternatives can help restore your health. The Austin Quan Yin Center is located at 5609B Adams Avenue. Seating is limited, so call 374.9800 to register or visit www.austinquanyin.com for more information.

Children’s Organic Gardening Club. Ronda’s Montessori Garden will have their December meeting from 10 a.m. to noon at 4300 Mt.Vernon Dr. The topic will be ‘Benefits of Feeding Birds’ and the children will make bird feeders. This children’s garden club evolved from a concern that there are 30+ garden clubs just at the Zilker Garden Center alone and not one is concerned with children. The December meeting will be the third of the series to raise awareness of children and gardening in Austin. The fee is $3. For more information, call 707.8635 or e-mail rondasgarden@yahoo.com.

December 10
Gear Swap Fundraiser. From 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., the Austin chapter of sheclimbs, inc. is hosting a Gear Swap Fundraiser. Participants are asked to bring any rock climbing, hiking, moutaineering and camping items they wish to sell or trade. No used ropes, used harnesses or nylon climbing products will be allowed, however. The location will be the Austin Rock Gym on 4401 Freidrich Lane. A $5 donation will be taken at the door. There will be a band, a keg and a slideshow. For more information, contact Iris at 926.0941.

December 11
Third Annual Ashera Project. Come out from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Ruta Maya Coffee House and help Ashera Project celebrate the start of its teen pregnancy prevention programming at Reagan High School. While you’re there, you can enjoy some live music from Elizabeth McQueen and other local music artists and bid on great items from Austin businesses in our silent auction. You’ll even get a chance to hear from State Representative Dawnna Dukes of Austin, who will be making an address. Admission is free, but donations will be enthusiastically accepted! And since Ruta Maya is graciously donating the space for our celebration, please thank them by purchasing food and beverages while you’re there. For more information, visit www.asheraproject.org.

Pedernales Falls SP - Hike. This is a seven-and-one-half-mile guided hike that samples all of the park’s ecosystems. The hike is strenuous and rocky in places and participants should be in good physical condition. About half of the hike will not be on established trails. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring two quarts of water, snacks, insect repellent and sunscreen. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; reservations required 830.868.7304.

December 12
Austin Meditation Center. From 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. there is a Rest and Relax, guided relaxation for the mind and body. Wear warm clothing and bring a mat and blanket. Reservations appreciated. From 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. there is a Bhakti Yoga Devotional Offering & Vegetarian Dinner: You’re welcome to bring an offering (fruit, flowers, or a vegetarian dish – no meat, fish, eggs, gelatin or lard please). From 7:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. there is a meditation and lecture about “Commercialized Christmas: Gift-Wrapped Emptiness?” Guided mantra meditation and video lecture. For more information, visit www.austinmeditation.org.

Peace Sunday. In an effort to improve the peaceful conditions in the world, we host a monthly quiet meditation, where all beliefs and religious traditions are honored. Following the meditation, participants are welcome to join in a potluck brunch and share camaraderie and croissants. Ages 14 and up. Free. Held at the The Human Potential Center from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. or visit www.humanpotentialcenter.org.

Weinhacten 5K Fun Run/Walk. A 5K fun run/walk and Kid’s Jingle Bell 200 Yard Dash start at 1601 East Main Street in Fredricksburg starting at 5 p.m. All proceeds go to the Good Samaritan Clinic. For more information, contact Bruce Henry at 830.990.0011.

December 13
Festive Foods and Tasteful Supermarket Gifts. With the holidays fast approaching, Randalls Food Markets Nutritionist Lori Valencic will present a free seminar on festive foods and tasteful supermarket gifts. Participants will receive tips on preparing quick and easy holiday foods that are as healthy as they are festive. The seminar will be held at two area Randalls locations from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at 3300 Bee Caves Road and Walsh Tarlton and the same day from noon to 1 p.m. at 2051 Gattis School Road in Round Rock. Reservations may be made by contacting the courtesy booth at the stores or by calling the Bee Caves store at 327.1881 or the Gattis School store at 246.0390. Please visit www.randalls.com and click on “Ask Lori.” All classes are free.

December 18
Enchanted Rock Trail Project. Sponsored by the Friends of Enchanted Rock, volunteers meet to rebuild and restore trails at the park from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; reservations recommended for large groups at project@friendsofenchantedrock.com. Call 325.247.3903 for more information.

December 19
ALL ABOARD! Spend your holiday season at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum when the Polar Express rides into the IMAX theatre. From noon to 5 p.m., celebrate the Christmas Cheer with FREE family activities where kids of all ages can spend a day with Santa, pet one of his favorite reindeer and join in all of the reindeer games to win prizes. For more information, call 936.4649.

36th Annual Tree Lighting. Enjoy a community-wide event, with carolers, a living nativity, Santa Claus, a lamp-lit tour of Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm and a special night-time holiday tour of the LBJ Ranch starting at 6 p.m. Call 830.644.2252 for more information.

December 22 to 26
Christmas Day Retreat. On Dec. 25, from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. join the Austin Meditation Center for a Christmas Day Retreat. From 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. there is Hatha Yoga (all levels welcome). From 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. join in an Introduction to Meditation. From 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. there is a Bhakti Yoga Devotional Offering and Vegetarian Dinner. You’re welcome to bring an offering for God and Lord Jesus (fruit, flowers, or a vegetarian dish – no meat, fish, eggs, gelatin or lard please). From 7:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. join for a meditation and lecture. Guided mantra meditation and a lecture on Bhakti Yoga, love for God, and the teachings of Lord Jesus Christ. You may come to all or any part of the retreat. No charge, but donations are gratefully accepted! Reservations are appreciated! For more information, visit www.austinmeditation.org.

Hope & Restoration of the Soul. Gather with family and friends, or come on your own, to celebrate this special time of year. Join us at Omega at The Crossings for two or more nights for a year-end holiday retreat — rest and renew yourself for the days ahead between Dec. 22 to 26. Each day, creative teachers offer several different opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun. There are four workshop sessions a day — two in the morning and two in the afternoon. You choose which ones you want to attend, with plenty of free time to indulge yourself at the spa, take advantage of the campus facilities, and simply enjoy yourself. Join us for a celebration of our lives at a time of year that calls upon us to both remember the past and look to the future. There are opportunities to learn to take better care of ourselves, as well as explorations of creative sources of wisdom. We also have the chance to look deeply into our lives to find out where we’ve been and where we’d like to go. No matter what the subject matter is, each workshop is designed to give you a sense of hope and to restore your soul so that you can be your best in the new year. You may register for any consecutive combination of two to four nights, starting Wednesday, Dec. 22, and ending Sunday, Dec. 26. For more information, visit www.eomega.com or call 877.944.3003 to register.