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Petunia the Perfectionist by Marissa Bader: An Austin Mom’s Book Review

 Petunia the Perfectionist
Ever find your child or even yourself struggling to achieve perfection? While this can feel problematic, readers are introduced to Petunia, a young girl who takes pride in doing everything perfectly. Throughout her journey, we can start to feel normalized that not everyone or everything can be perfect.

Read Jessica's book review. 
By Birgit Sund on February 16, 2026

Read & Share Book Review Program For Authors

Read & Share Book Review Program For Authors
Book reviews are essential for authors—especially indie authors who rely on visibility, word of mouth, and authentic reader feedback. As a community of readers, parents, and book lovers, we love supporting fellow writers and helping great books find their audience.

We also believe deeply in fostering a love of reading in children and making books accessible to families in our community. This program supports authors while also putting more stories into the hands of young readers.

This Read & Share Book Review Program connects children’s book authors with real readers and provides honest reviews that are shared on the Live Grow Play Austin blog, newsletter, and Facebook page, with many reviewers also choosing to post their honest review on Amazon.

By Birgit Sund on January 27, 2026

Simply Home Boutique: A Hidden Gem in Liberty Hill for Fashion, Gifts & More

Simply Home Boutique
Nestled in the heart of Liberty Hill, Texas, Simply Home Boutique stands as a charming yellow house brimming with unique treasures. Established in 2012, this delightful boutique has become a local favorite, offering an eclectic mix of home décor, fashion, kitchen treats, and gifts for all occasions. Whether you're stopping by for a fun shopping event, hunting for the perfect gift, or simply soaking in the boutique’s cozy charm, every visit feels like a little getaway filled with warmth, community, and delightful treasures.
By Birgit Sund on February 13, 2025

The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: From Tots to Teens

The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: From Tots to Teens
The holidays are here, and so is the hunt for the perfect gift! But, don’t stress, we’ve put together "The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide: From Tots to Teens" to make give you some ideas. Whether it’s toys, games, or creative picks for every age, our guide has something for all the kids on your list. Let’s make their holidays unforgettable (and yours a little easier)!
By Birgit Sund on December 6, 2024

How to Survive Cedar Allergies in Texas

Cedar Fever
It took about 10 years until Cedar allergies finally got me. Fortunately, so far my symptoms have been rather mild. I occasionally experience sinus pressure, itchy eyes, and ear aches. 

Here are some tips and treatment suggestions to ease the misery of winter cedar allergies.
By Birgit Sund on February 4, 2021

23 Evidence-Based Benefits of Babywearing

23 Evidence-Based Benefits of Babywearing
Keeping your new baby close to your heart in a wrap or sling not only feels natural, it makes things a little bit easier in those busy first few months. 
If you notice that it seems to make baby calmer, it's not a fluke — science has proven that wearing your baby can benefit their physical and emotional health.

So, what can babywearing do for you and your little one? Read on to learn about 23 evidence-based benefits of babywearing.




By Birgit Sund on September 30, 2020

German Christmas Traditions And How To Prepare For Christmas The German Way


Christmas is the most important and most celebrated holiday in Germany and is very much enjoyed by children and parents alike. However, the Holiday season and pretty much the entire month of December (even the last week of November) demands a lot from parents in Germany. Preparing for the festivities is very time consuming and due to extreme sugar consumption you’ll see more kids bouncing off the walls and driving their parents insane than in any other month – as the following Christmas traditions will attest.

By Birgit Sund on December 5, 2019

Does Your Child Have Difficulties Adjusting To School Or A New Environment?

Does your child have difficulties adjusting to school or being away from you? 

This is one of our favorite books: The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn that may help your child ease his or her fears. 

The book is "for any child who confronts a difficult situation, and for the child within each of us who sometimes needs reassurance." Perfect for first day of school or back-to-school.

By Birgit Sund on August 17, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions and What Live Grow Play Austin Can Do For You

What is Live Grow Play Austin?
How is Live Grow Play Austin different than other directories out there?
Why do I have to become a member in order to rate and review businesses and to participate in discussions on the message boards?
How do I find a pediatrician, child care, kids activities, or other businesses that are close to my home and age-appropriate for my child?

Answers to those and more questions right here.

By Birgit Sund on January 9, 2017

Diagnosis: Facebook Group Overload. Do You Have It Too?

Here's what we want you to do:

1.    Go to your Facebook page and count how many Facebook groups you’re a member of (we just did and stopped counting at 20).
2.    Then, try to remember what question you posted, what advice you gave, which post you liked, shared, or commented on, or which post you really liked but didn’t save.
3.    Now try to remember which group you were in to do any of the above.

Can’t remember? Can’t find it?

Sorry to have to break the news to you: You have Facebook Group Overload.

Good news is, there's a cure. Read on to find out more.

By Birgit Sund on October 21, 2016