I still love Austin. I loved Austin in the 90s when I went to UT and I have loved Austin every bit as much since we moved back in 05. Its my favorite city in the world. I love all the great places to get food, listen to live music, all the outside stuff, water (lakes, rivers, springs, pools) to cool off in, but most of all, i just love the vibe of Austin. Its such a unique place and has such a great feel to it. If you ever get nostalgic, just drive up Lamar from down south or Burnet up north, still lots of grimy old Austin.
Funny thing I dont think I have ever eaten at a chain restaurant in Austin, other than those that originated in Austin (Chuy's). Moved back to Austin to raise our kids. Yes, we are in Bee Cave so out on the border of Austin and the Hill Country. Love the natural beauty all around. Love the space. Love the 20 minute drive into downtown and 30 minute drive to the airport. We have a cabin in northern california outside of Yosemite to get away from the heat during the summer or to see the snow in the winter. But thats the other thing I love about living in Austin - great airport and within 3.5 hours to either coast for trips to explore and see the rest of the country.
we have family in Seattle. friends in Portland. Great places but yeah, I love Austin.