My Texas Dream : A Post in Pictures

Earlier this month I made a trek to Texas to host a couple of work events in two of my favorite cities, Dallas and Austin. Dallas has always been "home" to me. My maternal extended family all live in the surrounding area. Because of my father's work my family moved around constantly during my upbringing. My grandparents home, where we spend nearly every Christmas, has been the only constant house I've ever known. I was so lucky to be able to have dinner at a favorite restaurant, Babe's, with my Grandma, Grandpa, Aunts, and Uncle. It was great finally getting to sit at the "grown ups" table (yes, I'm 27 and still sit with the other kids...the youngest of which is in high school). Afterward, my Aunt Jill drove us back into the city and we took a dip in the W's glorious infinity pool 16 stories up!

Austin was next and I was lucky enough to stay at the historic and haunted Driskill Hotel. I am a bit of a scardy cat and wouldn't read the tip sheet about all the hauntings until after we'd checked out. I was also able to meet up with family in this HOT and beautiful city. My aunt and cousins took me out for Amy's ice cream then a drive through a few enchanting neighborhoods. I had many many questions for them about Austin life, mainly because I hope to move there later this year! Jeff and I have been thinking Texas for a while now and Austin seems like it would be such a great fit for us. We love art, culture, food, and community. All of which seems to be important to Austinites. I'm excited for the heat, Jeff is excited for the lakes. I tried to use this trip as best I could to get a feel for the city. Sunny and I took a walk one morning and ended up at Jo's. Sitting there on the porch looking out over South Congress sipping that cold cold coffee in the steamy morning I felt completely at peace.

...I hope my Texas dreams come true ;)

Have a great Friday,
Ashley

A few more things:

•  Apparently, the W Dallas is where Chloe and Lamar Odom lived while he played for the Mavericks. This would be much cooler if I had cable television.
• My meal at La Condesa was one of the best I've ever had. Ever.
• On our walk in Austin we happened upon streets named after Robin Hood characters and streets named for the Queen's residences. How cute is that?!