If you’re looking for a unique gift for a relative, friend, or even for yourself, Sanctuary could be just the place to find it. Austin-area newspapers, magazine columnists, and style bloggers all heap praise on this Westlake boutique, which owner Hanna Curran opened in July 2008 to feature the best of locally-made jewelry, current fashion, sustainable home furnishings, and inviting garden and botanical accessories. You'll also find a growing selection of products for children and babies ranging from adorable bodysuits to traditional wooden toys.

While Westlake has a reputation for being ritzy, reviewers on Yelp praise Sanctuary for being tasteful without being snooty and affordable without skimping on quality or style. The inventory circulates often, so you can stop by regularly to see what’s new, or follow this shop on social media to get a sneak peek at what is currently in store.

Sanctuary
3363 Bee Cave Road
Austin, TX 78746
(512) 329-0507
www.shopatsanctuary.com
www.yelp.com/biz/sanctuary-austin

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/PV KS

You might not think of yourself as much of a runner, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t start. Jogging is a great way to get outside, build your endurance, and maybe even drop a few pounds, and these expert tips will show you how to start doing it in a safe and enjoyable way.

1. Check with your doctor. If you’re unsure about your health, it’s always smart to check with a doctor before beginning any new exercise plan. Tell your doctor about your plans for jogging and work together to create a safe, accessible workout routine.
2. Wear the right clothes. Be sure to wear sturdy, well-fitting running shoes so that you don’t injure yourself while jogging. Stay cool and comfortable with loose shorts or pants, and stay warm in layers if the weather is chilly.
3. Warm up. Warming up helps you to gradually increase your heart rate, so be sure to walk or slowly jog for at least 20 minutes before jogging.
4. Stretch. Avoid cramping muscles and prevent injury by stretching your limbs before you set out, but after warming up. At this point, your muscles will be warmed up and stretch more easily.
5. Cool down. Walk to cool down your muscles for at least five minutes after jogging to prevent lactic acid build-up in the legs.

How to Start Jogging If You Have Never Done It Before [Healthy Living]
Jogging for Beginners [FitDay]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Phil Roeder

Baguette et Chocolat creates French pastries that are almost too pretty to eat, but they’re so decadent that you won’t be able to resist. The authentic French bakery and fine pastry shop is located in Bee Cave, Texas, and it features a quaint, modern interior with decorative light fixtures and a few cafe tables scattered throughout.

Baguette et Chocolat gets very crowded around breakfast and lunch times, but the spacious counter area makes ordering fairly efficient. The glass display case shows off the wide selection of intricate French delicacies, from almond croissants to colorful macarons in a variety of flavors. Regulars rave about the freshly brewed coffee and specialty espresso drinks, and croissant sandwiches and crepes make a unique meal.

However, Baguette et Chocolat is best known for its made-from-scratch baguettes baked fresh daily. Head over from Sendera Barton Creek to try one for yourself.

Baguette et Chocolat
12101 Bee Cave Road
Bee Cave, TX 78738
(512) 263-8388
www.baguetteetchocolat.com
www.yelp.com/biz/baguette-et-chocolat-bee-cave

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/avlxyz