New favorite place

Zac and I recently found the most magical and charming little neighborhood! It's in south Dallas (in an area called Oak Cliff), and it's called the Bishop Arts District. There are restaurants and shops, and everything is so close together, you can walk from place to place, like a real neighborhood.We miss Austin and living in the big city, and we love traveling. This neighborhood reminds us of being in San Francisco or something.

Sunday we met Zac's family on their way home from Oklahoma (Eli competed in an IronMan! Holla!) at a Vegan restaurant called Spiral Diner. They have the best vegan nachos, and I'd go back again and again! Zac had a meatball sub (which obviously wasn't really meant, just like my nachos weren't really cheese) and he even liked it a lot! It's a cute little funky place with tons of food and drink options. I told Eli that if I had choices like that everyday, I could be vegan too! :) On the way home from lunch, Zac and I were talking about how much we loved that area, and we need to make a point to go back and try some of the other places there.
Little did we know, that would be two days later! :) Tuesday I had a doctor appointment in Dallas and wasn't feeling too swell, so Zac took off work to go with me. We left the office around 4:20, and the traffic was horrendous. We took a different route to avoid IH-35 and ended up really close to the Bishop Arts area. Zac had been wanting to try this pizza place, so I told him we should have an early dinner and avoid the mad rush on the highways. We ate at Eno's pizza and then walked around for a bit. It was so fun and different, that we felt like we were on vacation, even though we were only about 30 minutes from home! :) In one of the shops, Zac said "your mom would like this place a lot! You should bring her here!"

So I did. On Thursday, mom and I loaded up and I drove her to Bishop Arts to see our new favorite hot spot. We ate at the Greek Cafe and Bakery and both loved our food! She had a gyro and I got a greek salad. I've never had chicken that was marinated or cooked better than that chicken! Yum! After lunch we walked around and I got Zac a giftcard to one of the shops he liked a lot, for his birthday. We went to Dude, Sweet Chocolate and mom bought some exquisite dark chocolate that had sea salt and feta cheese in it! Sounds weird, but it was phenomenal! :) We also went to a cute children's boutique, where I decided it was a very good thing for our bank account that I am not having a girl! Those bows and tights and dresses are too cute! We were in the 'hood for a total of about 3 hours, and left so happy, and only slightly tired. (although my pregnant feet puffed up quite a bit, lol!)

Saturday night we were so sick of being stuck inside from the rain (and from me not feeling very well, due to typical 38-weeks-pregnant uncomfortableness) and wanted to go do something low-key. I had on sweatpants and a UT t-shirt, and it was still raining, but when we got in the car, we decided to brave the weather and go use his gift certificate to Epiphany. (with baby coming in a week, who knows when he'll be able to go again) Even though the rain made me a little anxious, and I still wasn't feeling 100%, it was such a memorable evening, and I'm so so glad we went. We looked around the shop for awhile and Zac decided he wanted to wait to spend the money. We walked (close together under an umbrella, which is kinda romantic) to Oddfellows and got drinks and chocolate beignets for dessert! It was rainy outside and warm and friendly with great music playing inside, and I had one of those moments where I felt like I was in a movie. Don't you ever have those times? "Surely this can't be my real life. This must be a scene from a movie."
So yeah, four times in one week. I think we like this area. I know we won't be going back for awhile, but it's so chill and laid back, we already plan on bringing Drew and Molly next time we do come. I can just picture us eating breakfast on a patio one Saturday morning, with Molly at our feet, and Drew in his stroller. Strangers walk by and smile (because everyone is happy and smiling here), and they tell us how cute he is. And again, I feel like everything is perfect, just the way life is supposed to unfold...


Copied from wikipedia, just in case you want to know more about this special place...
"Neighbors and visitors enjoy an eclectic mix of restaurants including Oddfellows ( classic, American, Espresso) Bolsa, Cafe Brazil, Chan Thai (Thai), El Jordan (Mexican), Eno's Pizza Tavern (Italian), Espumoso Coffeehouse (Coffee and pastries), Greek Cafe and Bakery (Greek), Dude, Sweet (Chocolate), Gloria's, Hatties (American Bistro), Cretia's (bakery), Hula Hotties Cafe & Bakery (Hawaiian), Hunky's (Hamburgers), Spiral Diner & Bakery (Vegan), Tillman's Roadhouse (American), Vera Cruz (Meso-American, Mayan, Aztec) and Zen Sushi (Sushi), Lockhart Smokehouse (Central Texas-style Barbeque), and Lucia's (High-End Italian).
Bishop also includes many stores including, Shambala (Soaps), Indigo (Clothing), Epiphany (Clothing), Cozy Cottage (Children Clothing and Toys), GreenPet (Pet store), Alchemy Salon (Hair Salon), Bishop Street Market (Gifts, candles, home decor, bath products), Fete-ish (Assorted), Dirt (Plants), Make (Hand-made Pillows, Bags, etc.)"

Today I like...

...how I woke up in the middle night with the idea to make my own homemade decaf iced coffee, and actually did it this morning! :) I made a small cup of decaf 'breakfast blend' with my Kuerig first thing, then put it in the fridge. About an hour later I added milk, chocolate syrup and a little creamer, poured it on ice, and VOILA! Guilt-free coffee drink for me! (well, there's still sugar, but the milk is skim, and there's no caffeine!)

...that (good) TV is starting to come back. I'm not a huge television person, but it's refreshing that there are some new shows and some old favorites returning. The past two nights, Zac and I have watched The Voice (I like Adam, Zac loves loves loves Christina Aguilera...let's just say he's way more obnoxious with his "crush" than I am with mine! LOL), and a new show called "The New Normal." If you haven't seen New Normal, I recommend you check it out. It's no Modern Family, but there are some great characters, and I think we're really going to like this show. Also, speaking of TV, we love Big Brother so much it's ridiculous, and I saw online yesterday that the Fierce Five are going to be on BB tonight!!! Woohoo!!! :) Oh, and Ellen's back and in her first two days, she's had P!NK, Patrick Dempsey, Fierce Five, Britney and Simon Cowell, and

-Psy from Korea. My morning radio show (shout out Bobby Bones Show!) has been talking about Gangham Style for awhile now, and I finally watched the video yesterday, and then he was on Ellen! Funny how sometimes you've never heard of something, then all of a sudden it's everywhere you look! Allow me to introduce you to some K-Pop (Korean pop), if you aren't already acquainted. If this video doesn't make you smile (or at least scratch your head), I don't know what will...



-and last but not least, I also liked this article, discussing the "7 Things Christians Need to Remember About Politics." I think know people on BOTH sides could stand to read this. :)

September 11th

I can't believe it's been eleven years since that day. Not just because eleven years flew by, and it seems like yesterday, but because I can remember the day so well. This is just my personal story of the events, which I wanted to put in writing to be able to re-read one day, when I don't remember it as well.

I was a freshman in college, and it was a Tuesday morning. It was the first time I'd ever spent the night away from my dorm. I'd gone to a cheer friend's apartment after practice, and ended up spending the night there with another girl from our squad. I was driving to class the next morning, (which was weird since the past two weeks I'd just walked across the quad to get there) and listening to the radio in the car. I was so annoyed that they were talking instead of playing music (stupid me!) that I didn't even stop to listen to what they were saying. I tried turning to a few other stations, and got exasperated they were all so serious (again, stupid me for not picking up that something major was going on) that I put in a CD and jammed the rest of the way to campus. When I parked and started walking to class, the campus seemed bare. I figured I was running later than I'd thought I was, and just assumed everyone was already in class. I heard a mutter or two about New York, but in my rush to get to class, I still didn't catch on that something major was taking place. Something that would change our world.
I got to class and only about 8 of the 30 people enrolled were actualy there. The professor wasn't even there. Like myself, the others in the room seemed clueless. My professor walked in and had a grave look on his face. As he got closer, I realized he'd been crying. This big tough 40-year-old history buff had been crying. He explained that we wouldn't be having class today, then briefly told us what what going on. I STILL didn't understand the gravity of the situation (remember, I was just a few months past 18), but suddenly knew that whatever it was, it was a BIG deal. I ached for my mom, and called her on my cell phone, on my walk back to my dorm. There wasn't much we could say to each other except "I'm okay, are you okay? Okay, well keep in touch." and I walked up to my room. My roommate was glued to her TV and I remember watching over and over and over the video of the planes crashing into the second tower. Later in the caf, it seemed there was an eerie calm. I remember that later that day we found out the football game had been cancelled for Saturday. I decided I'd go back to Austin and spend the weekend with my family. Rumors swirled that gas was about to run out nationwide. I took my car to the gas station across the street from
Campus and waited almost two hours just to top off my tank. Of course we learned later that wouldn't happen, but being a gullible college kid who wanted to make it home for the weekend, it seemed the right thing to do. Although I was saddened immediately, I think it was still souv bigger than I understood for quite some time. So senseless, it was almost impossible to try to make sense of it. I remember thinking "I'll tell my kids about this one day!" and never having had such pride in my country. We all did! Flags hung everywhere. I learned about Nationalism in social studies, but never realized how powerful it could be. Although it was such an awful time, it was inspiring and beautiful to see the whole country lean on each other. I remember watching President Bush's speech, and even political discourse had melted away in the aftermath of this tragedy. We were all on the same team. Americans.
Years later, Stacy and I took a trip to New York City. We went to see Ground Zero and my strongest memory was coming up from the underground subway. Normally halfway up the stairs you could hear the city buzz, and with each step it got louder and louder. But as we walked up the stairs to daylight near Ground Zero, there was a reverent silence. Everyone was quiet and mournful, and although it was still pretty much a hole in the ground, with a fence around it,  there were some memorial portraits and signs. A lot began to sink in for me on that trip. I'd always thought about how 9/11 affected our nation, but never specifically how it affected the city of New York. People we stayed with lived on the 43rd story of their building. They said that for MONTHS after the attacks, they were terrified every time they heard a plane. The whole city went through so much, and I can't believe it took me years to consider their points of view, and what they faced and felt.
I know others understood immediately. I'm not proud that it took me so long to grasp how horrible it truly was (not just that thousands died, but that it would change our history, our policies, send us to war, affect us financially...all of these profound impacts), but I'm not ashamed either. Looking back, I was a kid. A sheltered and protected kid, who until then would've listed the David Koresh 'Branch-Dividians' event as the saddest day ever.

Today I like...

...The new Matchbox Twenty song, She's So Mean! I absolutely loved Matchbox Twenty my senior year of high school, and had the entire album 'Mad Season' memorized. So this new song kind of reminds me of those happy memories...similar sound and all!

...Pinterest! Yes, I'm a little late, but I'm finally aboard the pinterest train! I made my first recipe tonight and ohmyword, it was SO easy and very delicious! (Except next time I'll add a little cinnamon. They're just a teensie bit bland, and I think some cinnamon would be a nice touch.) I almost hate to share the recipe, because this could be my new go-to dessert I bring to parties and whatnot, but I love y'all too much to deny you this. You're welcome.

...Gatorade! I had to drink so much of it in high school and college, I kind of went away from it. It started tasting salty to me somewhere along the way. But lately I've been drinking one every day, and I love it.

...the new Bourne movie! Zac and I went to see it Saturday night and I'm still thinking about it. Same great action, complex storyline, and clever characters. Zac said he thought Jeremy Renner (whom he was once confused for in San Fran, no lie!) was even better than Matt Damon. I started to argue with him, because Matt Damon is awesome, but then I realized I thought Renner was really great too! Let's just say they were both amazing! :)
 
...No Doubt's song Settle Down! I loved Tragic Kingdom and the Clueless soundtrack ("Just a Girl"), so naturally the nostalgic side of me wanted to like this too. I wasn't sure what I would think, but I saw the video EARLY this Saturday morning (VH1 top 20 countdown) and FELL IN LOVE with this song and video. Also, if I was still a teacher, I can promise you that I'd sing the part that goes "get-it-it in line and settle down!" to my class all day long! Enjoy...

If you're going to San Francisco...

be sure to wear some flowers in your hair make a photo book on Shutterfly!
I got an email from Shutterfly yesterday reminding me that they're rolling to a new style of photo books. I checked "my projects" to make sure I didn't have any unfinished books in the old style, and whatdoyouknow, I did! I started this album almost two years ago but never quite finished it. So I spent a chunk of the day today finishing it, and reliving all of the wonderful memories we made in San Fran. Zac and I loved that city so much! We'd move there- if we could afford it, and didn't love seeing our families so stinkin' much! :) But we definitely plan on taking our kids to our favorite American city one day! Until then, we will flip through the pages of this photo book and relive the fun! Hooray!
PS-Have I ever mentioned how much I LOVE Shutterfly? I don't know what I'd do without them! Address labels, stationary, cards for all occasions, photo books, large prints...you name it, they're the best! I'm already looking at little boy birth announcements! So exciting! :)

Click here to view this photo book larger

You'll love award-winning Shutterfly photo books. Start your own today.

Today I like...

...These newborn portraits. I'm such a sucker for props and studio lighting. I know home and outdoor photography is much more popular, but these pictures do something for me that others don't. I just love them! I bet I spent a full hour scouring her website. I don't know how you wouldn't...they're addicting to me! Look at this...I can hardly stand the cuteness! I feel like I might explode!

...This post, by my number one favorite blogger. It made me cry. I can only imagine how many other moms feel this exact same way. I'm sometimes startled by how much my heart hurts from loving Molly, so I can't even imagine what Drew will do to me. But that's too much to think about right now.

...this random and funny/impressive video of some kids rapping about their favorite snacks. Which kid is your favorite? Zac and I love the raspy voiced kid who starts at 1:50.
PS-Zac said that at his old school, all the kids would bring Taki's for breakfast (!???) and the cafeteria sold Hot Cheetos at lunch. Don't mess with a tween and their spicy snacks!

Lastly, I love this wall I came across on Pinterest. Love it so so much! If I had more time, I would consider doing it in Drew's room. There is one wall that's very bare. I'm just not sure if I can find/paint/whatever that many letters in just over a month. But isn't it adorable? I can't quit going back to it and staring.

Smooth Operater

If a barrista is someone who makes coffee, what do you call someone who makes smoothies? Because whatever that word is, I should be called that. Not to brag (actually, that's precisely what I'm doing), but I have been making the most wonderful smoothies lately. Usually I just throw stuff in the blender (hmm...what do we have around the kitchen?), but lately I've been paying attention, so I can recreate it when I make an extra-sensational smoothie. :) If you're into smoothies, try one of my favorite recipes and let me know what you think...

Go-to Strawberry Banana
1 ripe banana
6 strawberries (riper the better, if you ask me)4 oz. greek yogurt (I use Yoplait Strawberry)
3 oz. skim milk (I just use the empty yogurt container and fill it 3/4 of the way)
3 oz. orange juice (I love Simply Orange, and measure same as the milk)
handful of ice
***Throw it in, blend it up, and ENJOY! This makes a great snack or meal. If you want extra nutrition (and to be full longer), add a handful of baby spinach. Sounds strange, and makes the drink look different, but truly doesn't change the taste. I do this about half the time.

The American
1 banana
5-7 strawberries (depending on size)
10 (or more) of blueberries
4 oz. Coconut milk
4 oz. yogurt
ice


Tropical Treat
1 banana
4 oz. coconut milk
4 oz. orange juice
handful of ice
***This one's super fast and easy, and makes a great afternoon refresher. Very tropical and tasty!

Today I like...

...the new song by Maroon 5, called One More Night.

...this article about an amazing athlete/dad.

...this video of Beyonce singing at United Nations' World Humanitarian Day. Inspiring!


...Baskin-Robbins MINI Mocha Cappuccino Blast. It's tiny, which is the perfect size, since I don't need the caffeine or calories. And it's definitely still a treat...one every now and then does the trick. But don't get me wrong, I could have one every day and be a very happy girl! Especially in this heat!

Sappy, but so true...

One of my very best friend's got engaged on Friday. I knew it was coming for weeks and it tortured me that I was keeping a secret from her. After she was proposed to in private, she walked into a surprise party where we were waiting to help her celebrate.The evening was joyful and magical, and just a taste of how special and fantastic the actual wedding will be. I can't describe the way I felt that night, and it wasn't even "my" night! There is something so amazing about seeing your best friends so happy, and everything falling into place. I almost felt like a mom, proud and overwhelmed with emotion. Except I'm only three weeks older than her. But I love her so much, and watching her fall in love, and now get engaged, is so special, and makes my heart happy. Friday night, I was thinking to myself "these are the moments that make life so magical!" My favorite blogger says she wants to "suck the marrow out of life," and that's exactly what I'm doing. Because even others' experiences (that are not technically my own) make my life that much more rich. GT, I'm so happy for you and wish you a lifelong happiness. There will be ups and downs, as there are in any relationship, but know that I'm here for you always, and I can't wait to share your journey with you.

And to my other best friend, I'm so thrilled you are in love, and have met "the one!" I've watched you go through a horribly painful break up, the awkward time in between, and now you have been glowing since you met Mr. A! I can't wait to be a part of your future adventures too! It fills my cup to see you so  happy and in love.

When my friends are happy, I am happy. What a wonderful year, 2012!

Olympics (well, mostly gymnastics)

I am loving watching the Olympics! Zac doesn't care much about them, so I'm using my blog to discuss my thoughts. Please tell me what you are liking, and what moments or facts have stood out to you. Here are a few of mine:

Bulgaria has a male gymnast who is 39! This is his SIXTH Olympics to attend! How cool is that!? He said he can only train when he finds the time, which is usually only 30 minutes, three times a week. How crazy is that? And these 20 year olds are training eight hours a day!

Brazilian gymnast Daniele Hypolito's eye make-up. Very patriotic. I love Brazil's leotards though! :)

 

Team USA Girls' Gymnastics:

I like their uniforms! The blue and sparkles looks very pretty in the pinkish-purple arena! (props to the Brits for making it pink! hehe)

The slow-motion videography is soo cool to me! When the girls are vaulting, I love how it feels so special effecty because of the camera work, when they pause the gymnast in the air, then go from a straight on view, to the side view! 

Watching Aly's parents reacting to her bar routine was precious. I can't even imagine how nervous they are for her. All parents, really. I like seeing the parents in the crowd.

Gabby is my favorite. I just love her so much. So pretty. Love her smile. So graceful. Is it weird that I want to be best friends with her? haha!

My heart is breaking for Jordyn Wieber. If you don't know why, read this paragraph...(or if you'd like to see the whole article, click here.)

An athlete who has trained since she was four years old is the reigning World and National Champion and coming into the Olympic Games as the all around favorite. She has a good day, not great, in her first Olympic competition and finishes 3rd in the World out of the 3 of 5 sessions of qualifications. However, the two gymnasts ahead of her are her teammates. So, because of a rule, she will not advance to finals. 

Although USA is in the lead for team, Jordyn (the best of the best!) didn't make it to individual All Arounds. Just because of a dumb rule. So sad for her.
Dear Jordyn, even though Gabby is my favorite, I still love you! Congrats on helping your team!

I cried when Kelci Bryant and Abby Johnston won the silver medal in synchronized diving. They were so excited and emotional, it was priceless!

I like Olympics commercials better than Super Bowl commercials. I also love how Olympics are so uniting. We are all cheering for Team USA (well, most of us), instead of disagreeing over teams and college vs. professional, and sleazy players, etc. It's such a positive thing. Love it.