A Day in the Life of a Kissing Tree Resident

Rob Aanstoos was a tried-and-true Austinite before planting roots in the Kissing Tree community. He and his wife, Charlotte, lived in the same home for nearly 30 years before downsizing to a smaller town and a smaller home in San Marcos. After seeing a Kissing Tree Facebook ad, they stopped by for a day trip and quickly signed up to be on the pioneer list. Fast forward nine months later and they became the fifth homeowners in the community.

“A big factor for us was who our neighbors were going to be,” said Rob. “We started coming out for social events and saw what the lifestyle would be like and that’s what sold it for us. We already knew that we liked the location, homes and community but it was the people that helped make our final decision.”

While Rob is officially retired, things haven’t slowed down – quite the opposite actually. His days are filled with morning runs, home projects, outdoor games, live concerts, volunteer work and so much more. Take a glimpse at a day in the life to see for yourself.

6 a.m. – What better way to start the day than with a 4-mile run around the Kissing Tree community? The serene setting and Hill Country sunrise are hard to beat.

7 a.m. – Breakfast is enjoyed in the Aanstoos’ brand new Vassar home while catching up with their two college-aged kids via email and planning upcoming activities.

9 a.m. – It’s only 9, but the activities are already starting. Charlotte heads over to her Arts and Crafts group in Independence Hall where she visits with other “creatives” while working on her own projects.

10:30 a.m. – The couple heads across the highway to the outlet mall to shop for new furniture. The downsizing of photos, records and travel memorabilia leaves plenty of room for new décor!

12 p.m. – Lunch on the patio is always enjoyable at local favorite, Palmer’s. Bonus: It’s just down the road from Kissing Tree. Here, everyone is family.

2 p.m. – The weekly Game Group is a can’t-miss for Rob and Charlotte and the group is raring to go with various card and domino games in Independence Hall.

4 p.m. – The speed picks up with the group heading outside to play horseshoes and practice bocce ball in The Mix.

6 p.m. – All of that activity makes ones very thirsty…good thing there’s a bar in Independence Hall! The Aanstoos and fellow residents enjoy happy hour specials and fuel up for their sunset hike.

7:30 p.m. – Just as the sun sets, the group heads out to enjoy a relaxing hike complete with Hill Country views and wildlife around every corner.

8:30 p.m. – What better way to cap off the day than with live music and dancing in the biergarten? Whether it’s country or rock ‘n’ roll, a good time is had by all.