All of this will be possible because of SockPro. I've been told that this handy sock organizer will save me hours each month. This time I'll reallocate for reading, sewing, yoga, gardening, etc.
Watch out 2012!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Big Plans for 2012
2011 has been good to us Peaches and we have high hopes and big plans for next year (tomorrow).
All of this will be possible because of SockPro. I've been told that this handy sock organizer will save me hours each month. This time I'll reallocate for reading, sewing, yoga, gardening, etc.
Watch out 2012!
All of this will be possible because of SockPro. I've been told that this handy sock organizer will save me hours each month. This time I'll reallocate for reading, sewing, yoga, gardening, etc.
Watch out 2012!
Monday, November 28, 2011
More Donuts
In addition to the 164 donut shops in Dallas, there are an additional 218 in Fort Worth.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Texans Love Donuts
According to the Yellow Pages, there are 164 donut shops in Dallas, 23 of which are in my end of town. Compare this to a paltry 45 in Atlanta and 8 in the small hamlet of Columbus.
It is a fact, Texans love beef and fried dough. (That covers 2 food groups, doesn't it?)
They have great names, these Dallas area donut shops. There is Fantastic Donuts, Good Donuts, Delightful Donuts, One Star Donuts. My favorite are the religious themed donut shops: Immanuel Donuts, Gospel Donuts, Gospel Donut Shop, and Shalom Donuts.
This weekend, Mr. S, the Wee-One, and myself will set out for some serious, hard-hitting investigative taste-testing to learn more about this intriguing donut phenomenon.
I did say that Texas wasn't going to make me fat, didn't I?
It is a fact, Texans love beef and fried dough. (That covers 2 food groups, doesn't it?)
They have great names, these Dallas area donut shops. There is Fantastic Donuts, Good Donuts, Delightful Donuts, One Star Donuts. My favorite are the religious themed donut shops: Immanuel Donuts, Gospel Donuts, Gospel Donut Shop, and Shalom Donuts.
This weekend, Mr. S, the Wee-One, and myself will set out for some serious, hard-hitting investigative taste-testing to learn more about this intriguing donut phenomenon.
I did say that Texas wasn't going to make me fat, didn't I?
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Stockyards & Farmer's Market
My mother-in-law is town for a visit. Thankfully, we know just enough about the area to show her a good time.
Yesterday, we had a busy day with a morning at the Farmer's Market and spent the afternoon at the Stockyards. Of course, I couldn't resist the chance to dress the wee-one in some cowgirl attire while we were at the Stockyards. She even scored her first little pair of boots!
Yesterday, we had a busy day with a morning at the Farmer's Market and spent the afternoon at the Stockyards. Of course, I couldn't resist the chance to dress the wee-one in some cowgirl attire while we were at the Stockyards. She even scored her first little pair of boots!
We finished the day with a huge meal of grass-fed steaks, stuffed 8-ball squash, and sweet potatoes.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Not Forgotten
Just a quick note to let you know that this blog has not been entirely forgotten...for the few who read it, anyway.
While our Texas life has not been slow or uneventful in recent weeks, it has been decidedly mundane. Mr. S has been busy with school, the wee-one has had a mild ear infection, and I have been very busy with work. We did discover a Afghani restaurant in Plano this week, but exhaustion has taken hold and we have not ventured out just yet.
Thankfully, the weekend is upon us. While I have been a bit under-the-weather (with something that feels unfortunately flu-like), I am enjoying some quiet and relaxation with the family.
Stay tuned for more adventures to come...I know they are out there.
While our Texas life has not been slow or uneventful in recent weeks, it has been decidedly mundane. Mr. S has been busy with school, the wee-one has had a mild ear infection, and I have been very busy with work. We did discover a Afghani restaurant in Plano this week, but exhaustion has taken hold and we have not ventured out just yet.
Thankfully, the weekend is upon us. While I have been a bit under-the-weather (with something that feels unfortunately flu-like), I am enjoying some quiet and relaxation with the family.
Stay tuned for more adventures to come...I know they are out there.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
In Love with Love Field
Just a few notes on why Love Field is now my favorite airport...
1. Recycling bins! Not since a visit to Portland, Oregon over 10 years ago have I seen public bins for waste, cans, paper, and plastic.
2. JFK! In the film, JFK a brief mention is made about Kennedy flying into Love Field. Ever since then, when I think of the airport, I am reminded of the fascinating Kennedy era.
3. Hyperbole! "I am in the longest line in the history of mankind", so said the man behind me in the security line. He said this at least twice. The line wasn't that long, so he must lead one of those charmed lives which involves very little waiting.
4. Hats! I spotted at least 5 sharp dressed men in driving caps.
5. Age Inappropriate Attire! There was interesting fashion paradigm present today: squeaky, young professionals in business suits looking a bit like youngsters playing dress-up, and the more established folks wearing clothese more appropriate for someone 15 years their junior.
1. Recycling bins! Not since a visit to Portland, Oregon over 10 years ago have I seen public bins for waste, cans, paper, and plastic.
2. JFK! In the film, JFK a brief mention is made about Kennedy flying into Love Field. Ever since then, when I think of the airport, I am reminded of the fascinating Kennedy era.
3. Hyperbole! "I am in the longest line in the history of mankind", so said the man behind me in the security line. He said this at least twice. The line wasn't that long, so he must lead one of those charmed lives which involves very little waiting.
4. Hats! I spotted at least 5 sharp dressed men in driving caps.
5. Age Inappropriate Attire! There was interesting fashion paradigm present today: squeaky, young professionals in business suits looking a bit like youngsters playing dress-up, and the more established folks wearing clothese more appropriate for someone 15 years their junior.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Cowboy Boots
I bought these boots well before plans were made to live in Texas.
One of my coworkers in Waco says they are "dingo" boots and that "back in the day" they were okay to wear.
I still like them. Although, I am now saving my lunch money to buy these...
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Texas will NOT make me fat!
Grass-fed beef
Czech pastries
Donuts
Baked potatoes topped with chicken fried steak
Hot summer days which demand ice cream
Deep-fried delicacies at the state fair
Barbeque
...and, there's more to come.
Whenever I am in a new place, I explore it first with my eyes and mouth. Mostly, my eyes are looking for places where I can find food to put in my mouth. Like many people, food serves as my gateway to getting to know a new community. It is probably the easiest way learn a new city: finding new restaurants help you learn to navigate your way around, asking about restaurants and local foods serves as a great conversation starter, and being in restaurants offers plenty of chances to absorb the local culture.
I have found no shortage of tasty delights in Dallas. It seems like everywhere I happen to be, there is a new opportunity to eat something. And this isn't limited to weekends and evenings with the family. My employer is always serving food, from catered luncheons to the breakroom packed with free snacks.
All of this eating, in addition to limited to physical activity (all tht driving!), would cause any waistline to panic. I am trying to develop a balance. I feel gross if I overindulge, but it is really fun and delicious trying new things. Still, I have lost nearly all my baby weight (just about 5 squishy pounds left), I want it to stay that way.
As a result I feel compelled to declare that Texas will not make me fat.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Cool Sutff in Amarillo!
Tonight was an adventure filled evening. The Locals have told me I have seen all there is to see in Amarillo, I shall remain open-minded and unconvinced of this...
First stop, the Cadillac Ranch. When I was about 13, I visited the Cadillac Ranch during a road trip from California to Indiana. Until my recent move to Texas, it was the only first-hand experience I had had with the state. Back then, the cars were painted hot pink and you couldn't get up close. Now, it appears to be a free-for-all. The cars are caked with paint and graffiti and the surrounding ground is littered with trash and empty spray paint cans. Kinda of trashy and sad, really.
First stop, the Cadillac Ranch. When I was about 13, I visited the Cadillac Ranch during a road trip from California to Indiana. Until my recent move to Texas, it was the only first-hand experience I had had with the state. Back then, the cars were painted hot pink and you couldn't get up close. Now, it appears to be a free-for-all. The cars are caked with paint and graffiti and the surrounding ground is littered with trash and empty spray paint cans. Kinda of trashy and sad, really.
Next stop, The Big Texan restaurant. When I mentioned this tourist trap to some of The Locals, they assured me I didn't want to eat there. Can I tell you that I managed to convince a few to go with me and I had the best time!?! Okay, it was a little hokey, but the service was great, the food was tasty, AND I was lucky enough to get a front row seat as someone took up the challenge of attempting to eat their famous 72 ounce steak.
(I would post of photo of this daredevil, but Blogger isn't acting right and I am too tired to mess around with it.)
It was a good day, now I am hoping for a good night's sleep.
Night y'all.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Amarillo
Ever since I landed in Amarillo this morning, I have had the song "Route 66" running through my head. And, not just any version, but the "Route 66/Behind the Wheel" remix by Depeche Mode.
***
My new job requires that I travel quite a lot. The travel isn't too glamorous, no visits to London or New York for me. I am expected to spend time in both Waco and Amarillo, in addition to offices in Dallas and Plano. At my previous company, I had carefully arranged, handwritten notes and files which sorted all of my projects and assignments. Now, because I work out of four different offices, toting paper files everywhere would be ridiculous so my laptop and Blackberry have become my new best friends. Yes, I have become one of those people.
I am enjoying the constant change of pace and scenary. I am learning how to be much more socialable and to develop the stamina to make small talk with people over the course of a 12-hour day. These are not skills I was born with, so I am quite proud to see them grow. Still, after a long day of chatting and smiling, it feels good to sit alone in a quiet hotel room.
I love being in this part of Texas and I am eager to have non-work hours to explore. It is so foreign from where I came from. Everywhere I've lived previously has been so green and lush, with trees everywhere. The flat Texas plain is completely opposite and incredibly inviting. All the locals I've met joke that Amarillo is so boring and that there is nothing to do or see. How sad for them. I've already targeted a couple of museums I would like to visit and there is a little patch of land near my hotel which is inhabited by prairie dogs. Not only that, but tomorrow I get to eat a meal at The Big Texan (the famous restaurant where you can attempt to eat a 72 ounce steak).
What's there not to love?
***
Well, if you ever plan to motor west...Just take my way, that's the highway that's the best...get your kicks on Route 66...
***
My new job requires that I travel quite a lot. The travel isn't too glamorous, no visits to London or New York for me. I am expected to spend time in both Waco and Amarillo, in addition to offices in Dallas and Plano. At my previous company, I had carefully arranged, handwritten notes and files which sorted all of my projects and assignments. Now, because I work out of four different offices, toting paper files everywhere would be ridiculous so my laptop and Blackberry have become my new best friends. Yes, I have become one of those people.
I am enjoying the constant change of pace and scenary. I am learning how to be much more socialable and to develop the stamina to make small talk with people over the course of a 12-hour day. These are not skills I was born with, so I am quite proud to see them grow. Still, after a long day of chatting and smiling, it feels good to sit alone in a quiet hotel room.
I love being in this part of Texas and I am eager to have non-work hours to explore. It is so foreign from where I came from. Everywhere I've lived previously has been so green and lush, with trees everywhere. The flat Texas plain is completely opposite and incredibly inviting. All the locals I've met joke that Amarillo is so boring and that there is nothing to do or see. How sad for them. I've already targeted a couple of museums I would like to visit and there is a little patch of land near my hotel which is inhabited by prairie dogs. Not only that, but tomorrow I get to eat a meal at The Big Texan (the famous restaurant where you can attempt to eat a 72 ounce steak).
What's there not to love?
***
Well, if you ever plan to motor west...Just take my way, that's the highway that's the best...get your kicks on Route 66...
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Wild Parakeets!
Meet the Monk Parakeet...there were 6 of these in my front yard when I got home from work today!!!
Sunday, August 14, 2011
In the beginning...
For years my husband and I have wanted to do something interesting with our lives. We love to travel, try new food, explore new cultures, meet new people,etc. Our dreams and imaginations have always been bigger than our checkbook balances and other realities, so we've satisfied ourselves with foreign movies, the occasional vacation, tons of books, and hours of daydreams.
Eventually, we became dissatisified with living vicariously through books and film. We grew bored of daydreams and pretend plans. By the time our daughter was born we worried that we may not be the best examples of how to live the life you've always wanted. After all, we want her to follow her dreams and not be afraid of the occasional risk. Shouldn't we do the same thing? So, while people in their mid-thirties with comfortable jobs and new babies are concentrating on settling down and establishing themselves, we decide to quit our jobs, sell some possessions, and move away to try a new life.
So, where are we?
The "Big D", Dallas, Texas! My husband is in grad school working on <ahem> a third master's degree in preparation for a doctoral program. I have a lovely new job. And we are working on transitioning ourselves from the sleepy Georgia town we left to DFW metroplex, home to over 6 million people.
In order to get here, we've refined our skills of resourcefulness, frugality, and perservance. But, the adventure truly begins as we begin to make a home in this massive place. Texas is, after all, "like a whole 'nother country."
Eventually, we became dissatisified with living vicariously through books and film. We grew bored of daydreams and pretend plans. By the time our daughter was born we worried that we may not be the best examples of how to live the life you've always wanted. After all, we want her to follow her dreams and not be afraid of the occasional risk. Shouldn't we do the same thing? So, while people in their mid-thirties with comfortable jobs and new babies are concentrating on settling down and establishing themselves, we decide to quit our jobs, sell some possessions, and move away to try a new life.
So, where are we?
The "Big D", Dallas, Texas! My husband is in grad school working on <ahem> a third master's degree in preparation for a doctoral program. I have a lovely new job. And we are working on transitioning ourselves from the sleepy Georgia town we left to DFW metroplex, home to over 6 million people.
In order to get here, we've refined our skills of resourcefulness, frugality, and perservance. But, the adventure truly begins as we begin to make a home in this massive place. Texas is, after all, "like a whole 'nother country."
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Coming Soon!
I've tried this blogging bit before...this time, it's serious business!
Stay tuned for the exciting adventures of one family adjusting to life in the Big D.
Stay tuned for the exciting adventures of one family adjusting to life in the Big D.
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