It would be nice if there was actually enough water in the lakes or rivers to cool off with...guess we have to stick to the pool!
Hope you are enjoying your summer!
Follow along with all our TX adventures!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Hot, Hot, HOT!
We are on our 20th consecutive day of triple-digit heat (100+) here in San Antonio. Some cities in Texas are one their 60th or 90th day. Its been crazy. And, to top it off, here is this weeks forecast:
It would be nice if there was actually enough water in the lakes or rivers to cool off with...guess we have to stick to the pool!
Hope you are enjoying your summer!
It would be nice if there was actually enough water in the lakes or rivers to cool off with...guess we have to stick to the pool!
Hope you are enjoying your summer!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Retama Park
Horse races! I think it's one of my new-found favorite things to do in the summer. I used to go in Fargo, before they shut down, and now I live within 2 miles of the track here in San Antonio! Kyle and I have a couple other friends that love to go to the park as well, so we had a good time Friday night!
From the Interstate, it does not look this big. I was stunned when I actually saw how big it was! The entire dirt track around was about 2 miles if I remember correctly. They also have a grass/turf track on the inside of the dirt track! The first race started at 6:30 (pre-race) and there were 10 races total. We left around 10:30-11 and there were still 2 more races to go!
(if my camera was a newer version I would have made these into a panoramic shot for you, but you will have to use your imagination!)
Kasi and Matt so generously explained to Kyle and I the betting logistics. What the odds meant. How to pick the horse/jockey based on the numbers in front of you. (In the past I had always just looked for the prettiest horse and the coolest name). And thanks to their winning Kentucky Derby tickets we got a table for free!
We spent an extra $1 per person to get in the nice-view very air-conditioned part of the race track. The level below us was basically free admission and $1.75 beer drinkers...the crowd gets a little rough down there I heard. We had a nice table, with a TV, right at the finish line! The TV had all the races going on country wide (equipped for real hard-core gamblers!) We found the Canterbury Downs station and watched that for a while, too!
And, we had to laugh, because even though we are in one of the worst droughts in recorded TX history, ever business still finds a way to get the water they need. There were 2 of these trucks watering the tracks after every race.
Overall I either broke even or won on every race I bet on. (Matt and Kasi weren't haveing such luck) and Kyle refused to bet (he always loses at gambling). So it was a successful night! And to continue in the spirit of the night, we went back to our house and played 2 games of Farkle!
From the Interstate, it does not look this big. I was stunned when I actually saw how big it was! The entire dirt track around was about 2 miles if I remember correctly. They also have a grass/turf track on the inside of the dirt track! The first race started at 6:30 (pre-race) and there were 10 races total. We left around 10:30-11 and there were still 2 more races to go!
(if my camera was a newer version I would have made these into a panoramic shot for you, but you will have to use your imagination!)
Kasi and Matt so generously explained to Kyle and I the betting logistics. What the odds meant. How to pick the horse/jockey based on the numbers in front of you. (In the past I had always just looked for the prettiest horse and the coolest name). And thanks to their winning Kentucky Derby tickets we got a table for free!
We spent an extra $1 per person to get in the nice-view very air-conditioned part of the race track. The level below us was basically free admission and $1.75 beer drinkers...the crowd gets a little rough down there I heard. We had a nice table, with a TV, right at the finish line! The TV had all the races going on country wide (equipped for real hard-core gamblers!) We found the Canterbury Downs station and watched that for a while, too!
And, we had to laugh, because even though we are in one of the worst droughts in recorded TX history, ever business still finds a way to get the water they need. There were 2 of these trucks watering the tracks after every race.
Overall I either broke even or won on every race I bet on. (Matt and Kasi weren't haveing such luck) and Kyle refused to bet (he always loses at gambling). So it was a successful night! And to continue in the spirit of the night, we went back to our house and played 2 games of Farkle!
Friday, July 22, 2011
Only in TX
Just when I think I have seen and heard it all, something else down here amazes me...
Last Saturday Kyle and I went to a pool party sponsered by Dan's apartment complex. We spent the afternoon in the sun and pool, talking and hanging out. It was a great afternoon. But while we were floating around, Dan and I got a huge craving for Chicago-Style pizza. We figured there HAD to be a place in this city that had some, and we found one! Once we convinced Kyle to go, we were seated in a mom and pop shop waiting for a pizza.
One drawback. They did not sell alcohol there. After a day in the sun that was a let down. But the lady said "for future reference, you can bring your own in if you wish." We all just stared at her. I was like, "We can literally bring in our own cans or bottles and eat here?" "Sure!" So Kyle and Dan were still looking dumbfounded, and I pointed out, "Don't we still have our cooler in the car from the pool party?" So Kyle went out and got our cooler. And we continued to enjoy some cold ones, while eating our Chicago-Style pizza in San Antonio, TX.
It was very good, too!
Monday, July 18, 2011
Jenga for Adults Only
You all remember the game, right? The game of balance and patience, and quite often certain drinking rules can be added. Well, we were out on Friday night and came across an adult-only Jenga game. With 2x4s.
It. Was. Awesome.
After it started to cool off a little bit, the bar we were at opened its big garage-style doors and we sat outside. (Granted it was still very warm, but it was less loud and less smokey outside). We I immediately noticed this game and wanted to play. So did Dan.
This is how tall it started out as:
We got Kasi to join and soon we were on our way to playing Jenga with 2x4s. In sandals.
This is how tall it was half way through. We thought for sure it was going down on one of our toes sooner rather than later:
After this picture we made a few more rounds each. (We were all shocked). Then, after a rather shaky round from me, we paused to take a picture. It was leaning forwards and sideways, and on a tilted table to begin with:
Then, after I had officially finished my round and passed it on to Dan, right as he was approaching it to look for a block to pull, it collapsed. Thankfully all toes were saved in the destruction of the game.
The remains:
It was totally fun to play, but, I have to warn you -- Watch Out for Slivers!
Pretty sure we will have this game at our house soon :)
It. Was. Awesome.
After it started to cool off a little bit, the bar we were at opened its big garage-style doors and we sat outside. (Granted it was still very warm, but it was less loud and less smokey outside). We I immediately noticed this game and wanted to play. So did Dan.
This is how tall it started out as:
We got Kasi to join and soon we were on our way to playing Jenga with 2x4s. In sandals.
This is how tall it was half way through. We thought for sure it was going down on one of our toes sooner rather than later:
After this picture we made a few more rounds each. (We were all shocked). Then, after a rather shaky round from me, we paused to take a picture. It was leaning forwards and sideways, and on a tilted table to begin with:
Then, after I had officially finished my round and passed it on to Dan, right as he was approaching it to look for a block to pull, it collapsed. Thankfully all toes were saved in the destruction of the game.
The remains:
It was totally fun to play, but, I have to warn you -- Watch Out for Slivers!
Pretty sure we will have this game at our house soon :)
Friday, July 15, 2011
Softball
Starting last year, Kyle joined a softball "beer league" with some friends and ever sine we have been playing softball on Thursday nights. Well, Kyle plays and I watch. :)
It's a great way to get out and talk with the other wives and see their kids, and let the boys play. We always hang out before/after the game, and usually have some cold ones as well. Last night it was 102ยบ when the boys were playing. It was HOT. We started at 7, so hopefully we have some later games coming up when the sun isn't as intense!
Here are some pictures that I snapped last night:
Their pitcher has lost close to 200 pounds in 2 years, softball was one of his main motivators!
TR: Dan was having some issues last night, so Jason and Kyle made sure to back him up in the out field.
Bottom: Kyle throwng in from the out field and batting
It's a great way to get out of the house and hang out with friends, in a cheap way! Sand Volleyball starts up on Tuesday, can't wait! Hope everyone has a fun and *cool* weekend!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Luckenbach, TX
When my friend Amy visited, we went to Luckenbach for the 4th. Some friends of ours were going, and we had never been, so we thought we would give it a try!
Luckenbach is a "state of mind, a Texas state of mind, where you can kick back, relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life - like a step back in time." That is the BEST way I can describe this, well, ex-town.
It was established in 1849 as a Trading Post, and then in 1886 a Post Office/General Store/Beer Joint were opened to make it an official town. A Cotton Gin was established not too far from the town, on the Grape Creek. It offered some success for the town, but not enough to keep it thriving. By 1970 the town closed the Post Office (officially making it not a town) and was put up For Sale. The new owner turned Luckenbach into an "imaginary town" with him as the "imaginary mayor." It was basically turned into a place to come and hang out, have fun, and relax.
TR: The old Post Office now converted to a Gift Shop
TL: The building where the "beer joint" and old post office lived
BR: The stage to sing is in the back, a building for somewhat modern-day bathrooms
BL: The "feed lot" is now a make-to-order place to get food
(And no, I am not making any of this up)
In 1973 Texas country-rocker came to Luckenback to record an album. It was the perfect laid-back Texas local backdrop for the band. The album, Viva Terlingua, went gold. Four years later Bobby Emmons and Chips Moman penned an idyllic ode to the burg "Luckenbach Texas (Back to the Basics)" which later became a huge hit for Waylong Jennings & Willie Nelson, ultimately bringing Luckenbach to world-wide fame.
The dancehall
Waylong Jennings Boots, and a common siting...many roosters walking around and a longhorn!
In the 90's, Luckenbach underwent a $75,000 repair for new wiring, septic system, and long-overdue improvements. For several years Willie Nelson tretured to Luckenbach for his annual 4th of July Picinic where thousands would attend.
Many Texas musicians still play there today, like the ones we listened to when we were there for the 4th. Every weekend there is a band played, cold beer, and longhorn steer to ride.
"Everybody's Somebody" in Luckenbach.
Luckenbach is a "state of mind, a Texas state of mind, where you can kick back, relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life - like a step back in time." That is the BEST way I can describe this, well, ex-town.
It was established in 1849 as a Trading Post, and then in 1886 a Post Office/General Store/Beer Joint were opened to make it an official town. A Cotton Gin was established not too far from the town, on the Grape Creek. It offered some success for the town, but not enough to keep it thriving. By 1970 the town closed the Post Office (officially making it not a town) and was put up For Sale. The new owner turned Luckenbach into an "imaginary town" with him as the "imaginary mayor." It was basically turned into a place to come and hang out, have fun, and relax.
TR: The old Post Office now converted to a Gift Shop
TL: The building where the "beer joint" and old post office lived
BR: The stage to sing is in the back, a building for somewhat modern-day bathrooms
BL: The "feed lot" is now a make-to-order place to get food
(And no, I am not making any of this up)
In 1973 Texas country-rocker came to Luckenback to record an album. It was the perfect laid-back Texas local backdrop for the band. The album, Viva Terlingua, went gold. Four years later Bobby Emmons and Chips Moman penned an idyllic ode to the burg "Luckenbach Texas (Back to the Basics)" which later became a huge hit for Waylong Jennings & Willie Nelson, ultimately bringing Luckenbach to world-wide fame.
The dancehall
Waylong Jennings Boots, and a common siting...many roosters walking around and a longhorn!
In the 90's, Luckenbach underwent a $75,000 repair for new wiring, septic system, and long-overdue improvements. For several years Willie Nelson tretured to Luckenbach for his annual 4th of July Picinic where thousands would attend.
Many Texas musicians still play there today, like the ones we listened to when we were there for the 4th. Every weekend there is a band played, cold beer, and longhorn steer to ride.
"Everybody's Somebody" in Luckenbach.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Congrats!
Just want to send a quick "Congrats!" to one of my friends back in Fargo who very recently got engaged! We met when I was working at Bobcat, and became friends...and still are! I am so happy for them!
Me and Jessica in Fargo at the Going Away Party shew threw for Kyle and me before we moved to Texas. Also here we are dressed up for Halloween! Minnie Mouse and Spidy-woman. :)
Congrats Troy and Jess!!!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Catch Up
Why is it whenever you have a short week at work everything is throw off...but yet the weekend STILL didn't seem long enough? And, in addition to that thought...I think it should be standard to always have the day after a holiday off. Can you imagine how much more productive people would be? Or it would just backfire...anyway...
Hope you all had a great 4th of July! This year was quite different for me...Let me start from the beginning...
My friend, Amy Pedersen, came to visit! She was one of my suitemates freshman year at college, then I lived with her my last year in college and she was in my wedding as well! She had been to TX one time previously, to College Station (where TX A&M college is) and loved it, so we did a little more "real Texas" weekend rather than doing a majority of tourist-type things.
On Saturday I showed her my work (she sat in a $5000 chair even!) and we even found her some cowboy boots. Then we ventured up to the town of Greune and wandered through the shops and ate at the Gristmill. It was extremly hot in the afternoon, so the cool beverages on the patio helped cool us off. Afterwards we ventured downtown to the Riverwalk to show her the nightlife. We went to Pat O'Briends Piano Bar, had some margaritas at Iron Cactus, played some darts at Leapin' Lizard, ate at a Mexican Resturant, and ended the night with a late-night swim at our friends pool.
{Amy and I at Gruene, and us downtown at Leapin' Lizard. Can you tell it was HOT?!}
Sunday our friends had a pool party so we hang out in the sun and pool all day long. It was awesome. For supper we grilled trout...have you ever had grilled trout? It was amazing. Hands down some of the best fish I have ever tasted.
Monday, the 4th, we went to a town called Luckenbach. This is a town that will take A LOT more explanation than this post will allow for, so I will go into details on that town next post. Just keep in mind it was in middle of no-where Texas :)
It was an amazingly fun weekend, and a great time to hang out and catch up with Amy.
Hope you all had a great 4th of July! This year was quite different for me...Let me start from the beginning...
My friend, Amy Pedersen, came to visit! She was one of my suitemates freshman year at college, then I lived with her my last year in college and she was in my wedding as well! She had been to TX one time previously, to College Station (where TX A&M college is) and loved it, so we did a little more "real Texas" weekend rather than doing a majority of tourist-type things.
On Saturday I showed her my work (she sat in a $5000 chair even!) and we even found her some cowboy boots. Then we ventured up to the town of Greune and wandered through the shops and ate at the Gristmill. It was extremly hot in the afternoon, so the cool beverages on the patio helped cool us off. Afterwards we ventured downtown to the Riverwalk to show her the nightlife. We went to Pat O'Briends Piano Bar, had some margaritas at Iron Cactus, played some darts at Leapin' Lizard, ate at a Mexican Resturant, and ended the night with a late-night swim at our friends pool.
{Amy and I at Gruene, and us downtown at Leapin' Lizard. Can you tell it was HOT?!}
Sunday our friends had a pool party so we hang out in the sun and pool all day long. It was awesome. For supper we grilled trout...have you ever had grilled trout? It was amazing. Hands down some of the best fish I have ever tasted.
Monday, the 4th, we went to a town called Luckenbach. This is a town that will take A LOT more explanation than this post will allow for, so I will go into details on that town next post. Just keep in mind it was in middle of no-where Texas :)
It was an amazingly fun weekend, and a great time to hang out and catch up with Amy.
On Tuesday before I took her to the airport I took her to the Alamo and took the tour on the river of the riverwalk. I would post more pics, but Amy took most of them :)
We have been so blessed with so many friends and family coming to visit, I just have to say THANK YOU to all of you that have come down. It means a lot to Kyle and me. :)
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