🍕 New go-to for game day: Pizza, margs & wall-to-wall screens

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Raise your hand if your husband started taking down all the Halloween decorations and putting up Christmas stuff at 7 a.m. on November 1. Just mine? OK then! I like to tease him about being the decoration king, but honestly, I kind of love it.

It gives the kids almost two full months to be completely over the top excited about Christmas, their favorite time of year. They’ve already started writing letters to Santa, making pictures for their “Elfie,” and, of course, working on their little wish lists. The Christmas magic is already in full swing in the Larkin household, and I’ve gotta say, I’m OK with it! 🎄

And before you scroll on, make sure to check out our Instagram section below for a chance to win tickets to the Brews & Balloons event this Saturday in Lago Vista. If you’ve ever wanted to take a ride in a hot air balloon, this is your chance!

👉 Click HERE to enter to win!

The Gist: There’s a new spot for little learners in Liberty Hill! Montessori Kids Universe just opened its doors, welcoming children ages 6 weeks to 6 years. The school blends the Montessori philosophy with the Reggio Emilia–inspired DaVinci Kids program, giving children hands-on ways to explore, create, and grow. The classrooms are bright, the outdoor spaces are beautiful, and the teachers are passionate about helping each child build confidence and curiosity.

Why It Matters: It’s always exciting to see new opportunities for families in our area, and this one’s all about nurturing independence, creativity, and community. A bright start for Liberty Hill’s youngest learners!

Read more here.

There’s still time to trade in leftover Halloween candy for a good cause. Through Nov. 7, two local dental offices are collecting candy as part of their Candy Buy-Back-for-the-Troops programs, paying kids $1 per pound (up to 5 pounds per person) and sending all donations to U.S. service members overseas.

📍 Where to Donate:

It’s an easy way for families to give back while cutting down on the candy stash. A small act of kindness that’s sure to brighten a hero’s day.

Therapy Pet Pals of Texas brings joy to seniors, patients, and people with special needs. Volunteers share love with every wag.

🐶 Visit facilities bring your trained pet
📋 Attend training short class and visits
🩺 Meet requirements vaccines and good manners
❤️ Commit to two visits per month

✅ Ages 18+
⏱ Flexible schedule after training

🐾 Share your pet’s love where it’s needed most.

For more details or to sign up, visit Therapy Pet Pals of Texas.

These Thanksgiving Cornucopia Cookies are soft, nutmeg-kissed sugar cookies topped with frosting, Bugles, and festive sprinkles for a playful holiday treat. They’re sweet, simple, and bursting with Thanksgiving cheer. A little crafty and a lot delicious, they’re the perfect sweet finish to your feast.

Get the recipe here.

Lin’s Cafe II Asian Cuisine has that cozy, dependable charm that keeps families coming back again and again. The food always arrives hot and full of flavor, from the crispy lemon chicken to the hearty lo mein and honey shrimp everyone fights over.

Service is quick, the space is spotless, and gluten-free diners are well looked after. It’s comfort food made with heart and served with a genuine smile every time.

More details here.

The Dugout Gametime Grill hits that perfect mix of good food, good energy, and zero pretense. The Chicago-style pizzas steal the show with scratch-made dough, crispy crusts, and just the right amount of cheese pull.

Pair it with a cold beer or a house margarita and you’ve got yourself a win. Friendly staff, family-friendly vibe, and plenty of TVs make it a local favorite for game days and beyond.

More details here.

🌱 Curbside Compost | Suburbs of Austin

Turn your food scraps into soil with hassle-free curbside pickup. No mess, no pests, just local impact. Now serving Cedar Park and Leander. Call or text 512-693-4609 or learn more here.

👩‍🍳 WE’RE HIRING: Endeavor Schools- Leander

Endeavor Schools is seeking a Preschool Chef to prepare nutritious meals, manage kitchen operations, and maintain high safety standards. Full-time role offering $18–$20/hour, childcare discounts, and career growth opportunities. Learn more here.

🚛 WE’RE HIRING: Patriot Unground- Liberty Hill

Patriot Unground is hiring CDL Drivers and HDD Drillers for local routes and steady, full-time work. Join a family-owned, Texas-grown company that values hard work and offers competitive pay. Learn more here.

Need to spread the word about your business or job opening (or really anything else)? Reach thousands of local readers - submit your FREE classified ad here.

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Thanks for reading Leander Scoop! See you next week!