Whether you just have an afternoon to spare or you're interested in a unique night out with friends, Ceramic Lodge in Round Rock can oblige. This painting studio welcomes folks to walk in and start painting or attend one of the structured classes to learn a little bit more about crafting with their fellow pupils.

You don't need to make reservations ahead of time to handpaint one of the bisque pieces at Ceramic Lodge. They line the shelves, everything from mugs to picture frames, and they start at just $12 each. Pick one, decide on a color scheme, and get to painting. Once your masterpiece is completed, leave it behind to be fired and swing by a week later for the finished product. You can also attend a fused glass class (held twice a month) to learn the ins and outs of the process. Classes are only $18 a head, and that's including everything you need to make your own work of art. If you've already attended a class, you can stop by any time to create a colorful plate or coaster with your own two hands.

Ceramic Lodge
18 Chisholm Trail Road
Round Rock, TX 78681
(512) 248-2100
www.ceramiclodge.com
www.yelp.com/biz/ceramic-lodge-round-rock

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr John-Morgan

Wishing everyone a happy and relaxing Labor Day!

Don't let its name fool you; Sarena's Breakfast and Donuts is good for more than just its sweets. In fact, according to Yelp reviews, some of the best eats on the menu fall on the savory side of breakfast fare. The kolaches, in particular, earn raves. Kolaches have roots in Central Europe, but Sarena's brings them to Round Rock in the form of pastries stuffed with sausage and various complements. While most locals call the straight-up sausage kolache the best, you can order one filled with sausage plus cheese or cheese and jalapeno. They come in regular and jumbo sizes.

Don't overlook the doughnuts, though. They're just as fresh as the kolaches and the breakfast croissants, which come stuffed with eggs and other ingredients. Grab a classic glazed or chocolate doughnut for just 54 cents apiece. Or opt for the more decadent eclair, cinnamon roll, jelly-filled doughnut, or apple fritter. If you want to make your morning treat really last, grab a dozen doughnut holes for $1.

Sarena's Breakfast and Donuts
1732 N. Mays Street
Round Rock, TX 78664
(512) 238-6601
www.yelp.com/biz/sarenas-breakfast-and-donut-shop-round-rock

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr tommy.chheng