Friday, August 22, 2008

Called Out

Several days ago a great friend got back in touch with me and she called me out on my serious lack of blogging. I wasn't going to include the text of her message here, but I think you'd enjoy it. And maybe she will too. I'm not naming names. Just responding.

"Really blogging once a year seems a little goofy for someone who travels as much as you! You thought I wasn't paying attention!"

I'm pretty sure that I haven't been on a trip since last June or July when I went to Chicago. I'm not counting the numerous trips to San Antonio since last August when I started helping my uncle. I should have taken some pictures of San Antonio, but all I have are pictures from his old (interesting and dusty) apartment and a few from his new place. I can't think that you would be interested in those, but I'll include a couple because I ALWAYS have pictures in my posts. His new place is rearranged a bit now and there is a nice bed spread too.
(Please note that if cell phone cameras were any good at all, I'd have some VERY interesting things to show you from the cabinet cleaning in the kitchen.)

Desk area before... (the key here was to reproduce it exactly at the new place. I took about 8 pictures of the stuff on top and then used them for reference.)


The sitting area before.


The new place.


Another view of the new place. This part is rearranged now and there are two new recliners instead of the small couch and green chair (which broke).


Now if you are still reading this - I have great news. I'm going to Las Vegas next week. Woo hoo! A friend is giving me a pretty good hook up - I'll tell you about it when I get back. That is if Gustav will allow - I'm flying Continental through Houston Tuesday morning. Yikes.

Monday, August 18, 2008

Things that make me happy

1. Lyle Lovett in concert - if you're paying attention then you already know this about me. I recently saw him at the new venue in Austin - The Long Center. What a nice venue! Great location, great views from the courtyard and outdoor balconies, easy parking and super acoustics. Pictures are below. Should I mention that I also have a crush on the cello player, John Hagen, and the acoustic guitar player, Keith Sewell (who also plays mandolin and sings).


From the terrace at The Long Center


Ray Herndon, SweetPea Atkinson, Sir Harry Bowens (hidden),
Lyle, Willie Green, Jr., and Arnold McCuller


Ray Herndon on electric guitar, Willie Green, Jr., Sir Harry Bowens,
SweetPea Atkinson, and Arnold McCuller


Lyle Lovett and John Hagen


Lyle Lovett


Viktor Krauss on stand-up bass, Keith Sewell on acoustic guitar,
Lyle, Gene Elders on violin (hidden), and Sam Bush on mandolin


2. Blue Bell's Southern Blackberry Cobbler Ice Cream - it might be too late for me to tell you about this because Blue Bell's website says it's a "rotational flavor" which they make available for three months. Thank goodness, because I can't walk by a half gallon without buying it and eating it. Look for it - purple in color with a brown rim. Yum!


** I might love the ice cream more than Lyle and his band, but it seemed wrong to put food first. **