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!

We finished the day with a huge meal of grass-fed steaks, stuffed 8-ball squash, and sweet potatoes.

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.

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.

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...



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.