This was a good weekend. Fun from end to end. I started it off by leaving work early, already off to a good start. Lindonian came over around 5 to start the party, which for those of you who don't keep track, was a First Friday party. Chatted it up with the neighbors, ate to much, drank an "appropriate" amount, and passed out feeling good.
Woke up feeling, not so good, but what lay in front of me was a long empty Saturday. Something must be done. Made a few calls, and decided to head into town to play with my little baby cousins. As I am heading out the door however, I was informed that a trip to the brewery was happening, switch plans, and was drunk by 3, oops. Headed to Amy's and proceeded to lose my voice in a yelling contest with a 2 year old. Technically it was a roaring contest, I believe we were supposed to be T-Rex's, not sure. From there I moved about 10 blocks south to the couch of another cousin. Tried my hardest not to embarrass Justin on his date, but sometimes he makes it too easy. Went to Rebel's, reluctantly. I like the people we were meeting, but this bar is not so much my scene. Think cowboys wearing Affliction. Yuck-o. Crowded as shit, people spilling on you every few minutes, and old men keeping their hands on the small of your back a little bit too long. Thanks for the memories. At some point near the end, I ran 3 doors down, to say hola to other people. Wanted to get in a fight, but what's the point in winning a contest with a spineless pussy? Made it home, and by home I mean the place I sleep at least half of the time, the lovely couch.
Was awoken by Justin announcing the fact that he was up, which I found pointless, lost an argument about tacos, went to get tacos from Chiloso's Taco House. By the way, these are my new favorite tacos. The tortillas are so good, they makes you forget that you are hungover. And after that, well I think you can assume how it went. Beer, food, football. The end.
I feel like it was only yesterday that I was drunk in Austin for the first football game of the season. Alas, all good things must come to an end. And I say good to try and not sound bitterly upset that out perfect season ended with less than anticipated greatness. Honestly, it is a surreal feeling. I'm not that upset. I mean, I wish with all my heart it had turned out differently, but what can you do. If they had flat out beaten our full roster, maybe I would be more upset. But to me this is like James beating me in a race if my feet had been cut off. I think he's gonna win. I was hopeful the whole game. Comebacks are awesome, and that kid pulled out some impressive passes that he should be congratulated on. I wish for his sake this wasn't how his career had started. I know he's taken snaps, but now he will be remembered as the one who couldn't save us. He'll just have to do something awesome in the next three years to change our memories. Anyways Gilbert, give 'em hell, give 'em hell.
I'm going to try to keep this rant short, but I realize I'm off to a bad start when I call it a rant. I love college football, and I'm sad to see it go. It was a great couple of months. I'm also sad to see the sad state of fandom in this city. We are in Texas for god sake. I know all you Aggies are butt hurt from the sad state of your team, but c'mon, Bama? And I guess you LSU fans are slightly less in the wrong, SEC and all, but then again, why'd you go to LSU in the first place? All I ask on this holiest of holy days is that I have a group of Longhorns to watch the game with. I could go to Austin, but that's a bit of a drive. Per my post, I'm not very nice. I am also not a good sport. Texans, Astros, Rocktes, it all bums me out but I can handle it. UT makes me mean. I don't want to be hanging out with some people who don't care either way and have to deal with their shit talking. I'm not a good sport, I won't think it's funny. I'm nervous.
So, after a month hiatus, I guess it's time to write. Mainly, I wasn't by a computer as much, busy with the holidays and all. The holidays, are in fact, over. So sad. I hate winter, don't get me wrong, but who doesn't like the holidays. People visiting, movies to see, too much food to eat. Lets talk about food.
Christmas this year was a little different. We were told to branch out, that we didnt need a second Thanksgiving. So, we had all sorts of appetizers, grilling, bacon wrapped things. Then when everyone was good and full. We put out the turkey and stuffing. Basically we ended up with two meals in the time span of one. It. Was. Awesome. Followed by bread pudding with ice cream.
New years was really no different. Grazing for like 3 days. We stayed at the Lazy Dog Ranch in Dripping Springs and shot off fireworks and the whole bit. We even had a little snipe hunting. Quite funny to see grown people hunting snipe with their children, clucking noises and all. Greatness.
The weekend ended with a wedding in Austin. Laguna Gloria is quite pretty. Right on lake Austin, it makes you jealous of all those people living up on the hill. Anyways, champagne was my drink for the last couple of days, and mad did I embarrass myself. Well it would have been embarrassing, but I don't remember it. People feel the need to remind me, which I don't care for.
Back to food. On Sunday morning, we ate a Juan in a Millions. I convinced everyone to get the Don Juan, and no one was disappointed. Davis finished 1 1/2, which is gross, but hey, its a feat none the less.
On the football front, I was pleased to see the Texans win. I mean, there 1st winning season, nice. But as far as the Bengals go, what the hell? Try and stay positive. Geez.
Back in the office, might be a short week though. Football game on Thursday will determine my work schedule. if we win, I'm gonna want to party. I won't discuss the other option.
I love Thanksgiving. Not just the food, but everything. It's like Christmas with lower stress levels. Granted there are no gifts, but there is also no church. That sounds bad, I realize, but church is just one of those things that you have to work into your schedule. Stress. People come home for Thanksgiving too, which is nice. And when you're in school you get this nice break. Maybe I enjoy it because I haven't had one in 4 years. Last year, I was in Hell, or Florida for those not in the know, so I was working. It was the worst. At least when I worked in Austin, the 2 previous years, I could grab a bite of turkey, then head to work. In Florida, I was stuck, alone, in a place that doesn't respect tradition. Gross. I was also harassed via text messages. Nice little reminders that I wasn't sprawled on a couch watching The Game.
But all that is behind me now. This year, dinner is at our house, so more cooking falls to me. Generally I make one dish, but this year, I'm making one dish, then assisting with all the other ones. I have also been taken off green beans and given the dressing. The dressing is much more time consuming, so my busy aunt took the easier recipe. Only one problem. When I make the green beans, which I've been doing for years, I don't follow the recipe exactly. I had a couple of different secret ingredients. I also add some not so secret ingredients. Double the fried onions. Sounds simple, but it makes all the difference. Also, it sounds fat, but I'm telling you that the amount that is called for is way too little. So maybe not double, but extra.
Football should be good this year too. Last year I sat in an empty hotel room and watched the victory, but it was not the same being alone. Nathan will be at the game this year, so I will not be able to taunt him, so the Momma will be receiving most of it. Lucky her. I'm predicting a nap at one point, or at least a comatose state on the couch. Yup, that's the plan. To you and yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
I love the fall for many reasons, but football has to be one of the big ones. For 5 months, you never have to wonder what you'll be doing that weekend. Saturdays, great. Sundays, even better. College football, speaks to my heart. I love it, love it. I can wake up on Saturday, and besides the drive time between bars, and not stopping watching for hours on end. Granted, part of this has to do with the Longhorns being back on top. Those in between years were hard, no doubt, but we never lost hope. It also helps that for the last 4 seasons, I have been eligible to drink in public. Being 21 never gets old. Like turning 16, it changed your life, for the better, and you never take it for granted.
Then there are Sundays, hangovers and all. I generally find myself glued to the couch on Sundays, water in one hand, Aleve in the other. It is frustrating however, to have to wait for the noon game. I manage to always wake up hours before, and sit and watch highlights from yesterday. Which is fairly pointless, because I watched it all in real time. This is generally when I catch up on golf, I don't know why, but I have watched more golf this year. I actually know a little bit now. Weird.
All in all it was a good weekend for football. Granted, the Texans lost, and that was upsetting. K Brown and his clutch kicks, not so much this week. Poor Guy. Cowboys win, which affects me in no way. I used to think that Cowboy's wins were a detriment because I had to listen to the fans all week whoop and holler about the greatness that is "that team from up North", but now, I'm not so sure. When they lose, they cry more than anyone. But not only do they cry, they bitch about their team. Makes my insults a little less affective. So basically, its a lose lose, so well done. Horned frogs comin' up, which I would generally say is a good thing, minus the fact that previous supporters of UT or hoping for a defeat. But again, I am not worried. We will prevail.
So this was a short weekend for me. Or a long one, depending on how you look at it. I got back from Chicago on Saturday. It was cold as balls there, got home and it was beautiful. Perfect trick or treating weather. Granted, I don' do that anymore, but I would imagine it was nice for those who did. Made it into town for game watching festivities. Nothing like watching UT stomp someone, but the fact that it was our "toughest" opponent, def made it sweeter.We went and got into costume. My ability to make Nascar suits is actually pretty impressive if I do say so myself. At this point, I was ready to be drunk, just not quite there yet. Made it to the bar, and proceeded to forget large chunks of the night. I know there was Vodka, and I know that I stayed out until 3:00, thank you day light savings. Got back to the cousins, I'm assuming, because I woke up about 10 hours later in the extra bed.
Phone died. Sweet deal. Noticed that I was now number one in the college football league, way to go me. Started to mentally prep for Sunday football. Got Linden, made it to the bar. It was around this point that I realized I was still drunk, so that's good. Couple of buckets of beer, and I was on my way to another black out night. Smart for me, I stopped around 3:00, when I reached an appropriate buzz.
They conned me into watching a scary movie, anxiety levels were high to say the least. And at some point after 9:00, I made the trek home. It was one of those weekends that was more about who you're with than what you're doing or where. Great time all around, no drama, just drunk drunk drunk.
Another weekend well spent. Football games were won, drinks were had, and Texas was able to prove its superiority once again. Friday started in the car, or should I say sweet ass van. Picked up the girls and the dog, and headed up that long ass road to Dallas. We showed up sometime around 5:00 and started making our way to the Goose for the world's strongest margaritas. Delicious. I managed to not get too hammered, unlike some people. Let's just say, my night didn't end at 10:30. Made it to uptown for the second round of strong ass drinks. Not sure what exactly was going on, but some body upstairs decided I wasn't going to remember the evening. Good thing for pictures, or that night would be gone completely. Taxi ride home, no Blayne, we did not go to Ft. Worth, despite your screams to the contrary. Got home, managed to get up the stairs, only to find "a couple of skanks" in my bed. Made a slight scene, if for no other purpose than to disrupt them slightly. Proceeded to let Joe in on the atrocities being committed, and passed out on the couch while watching Jurassic Park. That part was actually pretty sweet. Woke up for football. Saturday was sober for me, and in the spirit of this blog, uneventful. Had a great time at the fair, got my corny dog and all. Tried to make sure all my people made it around safely. Almost killed myself by trusting the carnies and there movable rides. Hey bozo. Texas win was good though. Well that's not true, the win was all well and good, but the game was just sloppy. Thank goodness they were just as sloppy. Man I hate Oklahoma. Greenville for the night. Nice. Made it home, made a sandwich, thank you Laura. Then proceeded to kick before mentioned skanks from before mentioned bed. Caitlin victorious. Woke up around 5:00 for the alarm. Not mine mind you. No, this was for the girl who had to work that day. I knew she had a flight, so for an hour I was yelling at her to wake up. at 6:00 I reminded her for the last time, that the reason the alarm was going off was for her. She seemed shocked it was so late. So at 7:00, I was shocked to find her shocked that she had overslept. She made her flight, but whatever, I tried.
Watched football all day. Was pleased with a Houston win. Lost at fantasy, but a real one by a team is slightly more important than my own imaginary one. And, Peyton was out, so what did I really expect.
Now my week is consisting of dog sitting and work. Pretty eventful. Now if I could only find time to make costumes, who knew Halloween was a week away?!?!
Ya know the feeling on Monday mornings, when it feels like the weekend never even happened. I'm there right now. Haven't been to work in 2 days, but it doesn't feel like it. Nope. And I know I had a good time this weekend, used my time wisely and all, but it's definitely a haze. Friday, was supposed to be chill. Went to Boondoggle's early, for dinner and drinks. Which of course, turned into more drinks and less food. An eclectic group of friends for sure, but all in all, a great time. That was until, we headed to good 'ol Webster. Nothing like getting kicked out of a bar for harassing the DJ. Apparently or song requests were misconstrued as threats and verbally abusive. I, of course, disagreed. None the less, we were escorted out at 1:45. Really put a damper on our evening. A whole 15 minutes. Wow. Made it home safely, and I assume went straight to bed, but at this point, the night got fuzzy. When I woke up the next morning, it was due to my mother's request that I try and make my room look less like a 13 year old's, and more like the 24 year old I am. Apparently, being messy is something she thinks you grow out of. I am proof, that it is not. I managed to roll out of bed and started the process of curing myself. Headaches and dehydration. I knew I was in for a day of drinking, so I had to start off on the right foot. As I was getting ready, my Dad asked how good my memory was. I was confused at first. Until he explained that he wondered how long it would take before I forgot how bad I felt when I woke up, and therefore started drinking again. Zinger. Apparently, he finds powering through to be funny. In answer to his question, about 3 hours. Ended up with $1 margaritas. And between the 3 of us, ended up with a $16 tab. The waiter kept cutting us off. He would inform us that we had already had so many margaritas, and our answer was always,"Uno mas!". So after we had our fill of tequila, it was time to switch to beer. We of course had to make a stop for the two babies with heart burn. Tums, they're like candy. Went to Molly's, not exactly my scene, but whatever, they had a lot of screens showing the various games, so it served its purpose. Convinced Kate that the night was nowhere near over, and proceeded to get stupid drunk. Found a ride to a friends, where we started playing catch in the street. I had no glove, so I was the loser. But some might argue that Kate was the loser, due to how many times she fell down. I also think Kate will never throw another foam finger out of a moving car window. Immediate regret. Apparently, when people have foam fingers in their car, they value them more than you would think, or at least more than Kate would think. She honestly couldn't understand why Adam was so upset. Oh well. Passed out on the couch, the short one, thanks a lot Chet.
Woke up, made it to the car. Which we had parked safely in the bar's parking lot. We arrive at said parking lot, only to find the car chained it. Seeing as it was I who parked the car, I was about to be in slight trouble, because it was in fact, Kate's car. But, no worries, the chain wasn't locked, so it was quickly removed, and we were free. As we debated where to eat, one voice kept saying "Hooters, hooters", over and over. That voice was of course Chet, and so we gave in And arrived at the place, just in time to join the most obnoxious people, ever. Had a couple of beers, and a few too many wings, and I couldn't take it anymore. I can't explain it, but these grown men were making this horrible sound, over, and over, and over. We of course, proceeded to make our own comments, directed to the idiots, not the screen. Before I met these guys, I was hoping for Dallas to win, I mean, why not, I have a lot of Cowboy fans as friends. But once again, I give Dallas a break, and I am instantly reminded why I can't root for them. Total tool. I'm just thankful we left before OT was over, or I really would have tried to remove my own ears. There are no words.
So ya, that was another weekend for the books. I don't believe I was ever fully sober. And I'm gonna go ahead and put that in the W column. Also, I won my fantasy football game, so it ended on a high note. Wasn't about to let the trashy bikers at hooters be the way I ended my weekend.
It's Monday, and I couldn't be more tired. Friday, I left work a bit early, had some errands to run before I went to The Stros game with one, Michael D. Topping. He was running 3 minutes late, so I of course filled that time by going to the bar and getting a beer. Ran into some friends. I mean, in all of Houston, why can I go into any bar, and see people from Clear Lake, its getting to be ri-god-damn-diculous. So Mike shows, go to the suite, where I tried to act polite, as to not offend his parents who were kind enough to let me join. Watched the Astros play yet another frustrating game. Got enough free beer to fill my quota, and headed home to Boon's. I was meeting Kate. Now, she was coming from a restaurant 7 minutes away. I was coming from Minute Maid, which is 30 minutes away. Who do you think got there first? Pathetic Kathryn, pathetic. Ran into MORE Clear Lake people. Then proceeded to get hammered, hammered drunk.
Saturday, woke up earlier than necessary. Well it was early, but Nancy didn't find it unnecessary. What is it about older people, that sleep pisses them off. I mean, ya, if my friends over sleep and we were supposed to meet up, annoying. If I am minding my own business however, it doesn't bother me to know others are sleeping. Anyways, so I woke up, did some more nothing around the house, went into town to watch the game, blowout, nice. Watched the Tech vs. UH, game, go coogs. Still pretty hungover from Friday, it's like I'm old or something, stupid liver.
Woke up early on Sunday, to my father saying "what time you getting up?" Me: "When are we leaving?". Gregg: "10 Minutes". What the hell, who waits until 10 minutes before the train pulls out. 30 minutes would have been nice. I mean, ya I sleep in, but 8:45 on Sunday, not weird for me to be sleeping. I'm gonna have to figure out this sleep thing. Maybe if I had any time, I could have had a glass of water before we left. As it happened, I didn't have water, so when it got hot as shit at the tailgate, I blacked out. Nice. I know I fell, and I know my dad caught me, otherwise, I'm a little fuzzy. Fantastic. Went into the game. Got a free hat, nice. Watched the Texans embarrass themselves, I mean c'mon, pass interference, I think not.
And again, one Peyton Williams Manning came to my rescue. All day I was down in fantasy football, then number 18 comes and pulls a miracle 49 points. Love, love is in the air.
Wrong. So, I leave for Vegas in like 6 hours. In 6 hours I will be on a plane, with 4 other alcoholics, hopefully already on my way to drunken ridiculousness. I mean, that's the plan anyway. For 2 more hours, I am going to sit at my desk, and be the "hardworking employee" they think, they know, I am. And then, who knows. I mean who really knows what is going to happen. I've been excited for awhile, but it is really starting to sink in, the pre-trip awesomeness. I'm not gonna try and predict/plan my weekend, that would take some of the fun out of it. I mean, lets not get carried away, this weekend would probably be a hell of a lot safer if some of the fun was taken out of it, but who needs safe. So, in case I don't make it back, or just lose my mind completely, here's to Vegas, friends, and drunken debauchery! P.S. Hook 'Em Horns!!! and Tech, you can suck it.
The last weekend before Vegas, you would think I would rest up, but no. It's like Thanksgiving, there are those who believe you shouldn't eat all day so that you have more room. Then there are those who believe you need to stretch out your stomach. It's like practice for your stomach. I'm in the latter group, obviously. I mean, in college I had totally trained by body for drinking too heavily. I didn't get hangovers, no matter what. Just didn't happen, Linden can attest to this. So I figured, drink heavy all day and night, seems like that would be a good test run for Vegas. Let's hope the hangovers were worth it. Only this weekend will start at 3:00pm on Thursday, because that's when I get to the airport. And we all know that airport bars are where it is at. Also, I won't be driving for 72 hours, so that pesky drinking and driving situation won't rear its ugly head
Anyways, back to the weekend at hand. Friday, went shopping, blew a good amount of money, but ended up with enough to supplement my wardrobe. Then went to the neighbors for Tapas. It was good to say the least. It was a good bye party for a friend moving to Spain, so they were fairly Texas based tapas. Who new T Cove was filled with such inventive chefs. My plan was to wait until the party died, then head out to a birthday thing for a bit. Little did I know that they were going to bust out the drunken guitar playing and singing. I ended up leaving at 12:30, which was way earlier than the party actually died. Did I mention that these were all 45-65 year olds? Nothing like seeing all the dads I grew up with hammered drunk singing ""You Don't Have to Call Me Darlin, Darlin". So, made it down to Kemah, and was greeted with a shot of Patron. To recap, I had white wine sangria at the party, followed by Lone Star and Shiner. So this was gonna by an all types of liquor kinda night, fantastic. Ended up hammered and back at home at 2:30, good night in all.
Woke up way to late, showered, got dressed and tried to find a TV showing the Texas game. Stupid Comcast. Found the TV and proceeded to sit on that couch all day/ night. Took a 2 hour break to go eat dinner, buy more beer, and red wine, because the guys are just that classy. Before the game had ended, and we had run out of beer, Chet decided to open the bottle of wine he was gonna drink at dinner. Kate was out of beer, so he poured her a glass. 30 minutes later, the bottle was gone, and it wasn't a small bottle. Drunks. Went to Angelo's for pizza, first time I'd eaten all day(8:00 pm). Went back to Chet's, somewhere in hear is where I lost my phone the first time, nicely done. Didn't even know it was gone. Watched the USC game, which of course sucked to be rooting for the Trojans, but man do I hate the Buckeyes, so they were the lesser of two evils. Somehow, my hangover kicked in around midnight, so I slowed my roll. Realized my phone was missing, found said phone, for all of what seemed like 15 minutes, managed to lose it yet again. Made a couple more interesting decisions, headed home around 5:00 am, at least my parents are heavy sleepers.
Woke up when my parents returned from church, they don't even try to make me go. Started the search for the phone yet again, how it got in Kate's car I do not know. Watched the Texans embarrass their city. Watched the Giants embarrass Campbell. Watched my Fantasy team embarrass the league. Headed to the pool around 5:45 for some Sunday Funday. Thought about not drinking, then proceeded to ignore that random thought. Watched Kanye embarrass himself. Watched Beyonce make it all better. Read HP, passed out. Nothing special, just a good ol' drunken weekend, nicely done.
End of a four day week, and I'm just thankful it was only four days. Something about knowing it was short made me unable to cope with work at all. I mean, it was still short, but I was ready for it to be over Wednesday afternoon.
I went to the TCGC meeting/party last night. Now for those not in the know, that stands for Timber Cove Garden Club. The garden club is in charge of throwing the annual parties. I mean, we have parties every week it seems like, but there are a few parties that have been happening for decades. The meetings are during the day, so sad I'll miss them because of work. That just leaves the parties and dinners, it's like I planned it. So I am officially the youngest member ever, and my mother and I are the only two "ladies" who share an address. I mean, we aren't the first mother-daughter pair, but most of the daughters have moved out of the nest. Oh well, first time for everything. Tonight is one of those non-annual parties. Missy G is leaving for Spain in a week so tonight is her goodbye party, should be good. Tapas, awesome. Mine will be a fusion Texas/Mexican/Spanish thing. Gotta nail down the details. I'm sure it'll all work out. So that's the pre-party plan. Then maybe we'll hit up the local brew house, because sometimes, 4 hours of drinking isn't enough.
But I have to be careful, because tomorrow is another day of college football, and we all know, the fact that you drank heavily on Friday, is no excuse when it comes to being a puss while watching football. And then Sunday, oh Sunday. NFL, all day long. I mean, last night was good and all, but one game? Not nearly enough. I'm sure like all my other planned weekends, this one will end up being totally different than expected., but as long as I end up hungover on Sunday, I'll chalk it up as a win*.
* Let me clarify, hangovers are not a win. I'm just assuming that what got me to that hungover state will have been fun and drunken. Ok, just wanted to clear that up.
So Sunday came along, and I did something quite out of the ordinary. I woke up at like 8:00. Now, I realize this is not a huge accomplishment, but it was odd to say the least. My uncle made me breakfast, it was delicious, and we talked for a couple of hours, while I retold some of my Saturday. What felt like 4:00 rolled around and I figured we should probably head home. It was like noon. Ridiculous. Waking up early really lengthens the day. It's kind of amazing actually. Got on the road, and awaited the bliss that was a down and dirty burger, so pumped. We got to Ellinger, and ordered. Now, you know when you have heard tales of burgers or some other food that a place is famous for, it is not a surprise if that something is a let down. People always talk to much. But I am a fan of the "it's just a really good burger" burger. Nothing special, just good. I would say this burger is better than that though. I was not disappointed. They toast the bun on the grill so it tastes like melted heaven. Anyways, two thumbs up.
Got home, got dressed, headed into town, I believe it was about 7:00, but I'm not sure. The Ole Miss game had just ended, congrats to the Ole Miss fans, and we set off in search of food. I wasn't really that hungry, but I of course helped out on the Kenneally's Pizza. Watched a couple of games of darts, then headed to the house party, where we were told, the beer runneth over. Needless to say, I called for more beer around 10:45, we'd already finished the first 72, which sounds like a lot, but isn't. Especially not when flip cup is involved. I love flip cup, love it. I'm also not too bad at it either. Which isn't a big surprise, because I typically don't love doing things I'm not good at, something about being slightly competitive or something. I swear we played 50 games, sometimes, just one on one. Hammered, hammered drunk. Gonna cut that night short, because that's all I remember. Passed out(on a couch, again). Monday, woke up and headed to brunch. Wasn't really brunch but I got breakfast, and some people got lunch. I would have maybe gotten lunch, but it wasn't being served for another 30 minutes, and I was not waiting, ludicrous. At this point, I was still drunk. I wasn't hungover, and I wasn't hurting, but my head felt all funny and I was definitely dizzy/light headed. Had like 8 glasses of iced tea, went back to the house, laid on the couch, and waited until I felt physically able to drive for 40 minutes. Took me about 5 hours to get to that point. Made it home. Read HP. All in all, the weekend was much more eventful than expected. Some might give it a 9.5, but
So, I love the drive to Austin. I know a lot of people really hate any distance longer than 15 miles, but they need to get over it. Going to Austin, all you think about is the awesome time you are about to have. The food you'll eat, the beer you'll drink. Add a football game on top of that, I'm in heaven.
In Texas Monthly last month, they showcased the 50 best burgers in Texas. Talk about setting a new goal for myself. I had actually had a good number on the list, but have since decided that that number is minuscule and must be changed. On 71, some of you may have stopped at Hruska's. It is a Chevron station in Ellinger. It is also the only place between Columbus and Bastrop where you are required to brake, lame ass 55mph. Whatever. But Hruska's makes this up to me by serving delectable food. They have kolaches (see below, for that love affair), a grill, a deli, and for those of you who don't know, I have a Chevron credit card, so this smorgasbord of awesomeness is basically free to me, jealous? So their burger made the list which means, even if it was 8:00 in the morning, I was gonna be eating one on this trip, suck it healthy living. I did however put off the feast until the trip back due to the time crunch that is pre-gaming. And their are few others who enjoy food like myself, but it just so happens that Nancy Sue(Momma) is one of them. Needless to say, we got pretty excited.
Then the hardest rain I've ever driven through, let me tell you. Straight white out. And of course, all I can think is how much it'll suck if it's raining at the game, but that's selfish. I mean, the Hill Country is only in one of the worst droughts ever, but hey, I need to enjoy my Saturday. Get to Austin, try to give Foley ample time to call me back, still a fail. Get a hold of Foley, go to Abel's. Foley thinks I need to catch up, so I am given a Texas Iced Tea, which is a Long Island, with more alcohol. I didn't know there could BE more alcohol, but I'm not complaining. Ran into high school friends. Now I'm all for combining groups of friends, but when they try to find a point of commonality, and that point is making fun of you, it's time to go. I'm sure most of you are aware of this, but I have to point something out. At UT football games, the lack of beer inside the stadium means you need to get drunk enough to walk, but not drunk enough to sober up before half time. Of course there is the flask option, but some of us are forgetful, so there ya go. Game was awesome. Accidentally cock blocked Mr. Foley. Total accident, but hey, who lies about being a junior in college at the age of 24. I mean, at least say a senior. Foley, do you realize you were 20, when you started junior year, dumb. Went back to Abel's, got hammered, watched OU get embarrassed, and proceeded to house party. Left so called house party, called my mom.
I know, awesome right. You know when you are in high school, and your mom says, "no matter what, you can call me, no questions asked, I won't be mad". We've all heard it. It took me until I was almost 24 to pull that, hopefully she wasn't mad, but for once I wanted to spend a Saturday night in a bed, and not on the floor or couch. Walked through West Campus with my beer, because, there is no open container law in Austin. Hmm, somehow that doesn't sound right. Nancy picked me up while I was wandering down 24th St, classy. Went home and slept the sleep of the innocent, which of course means, party clothes and makeup on, passed out, mouth open. Saturday: Mission Complete.
As a person new to this whole 9-5, Monday through Friday thing, 3 day weekends are definitely NOT taken for granted. When I returned from the office after lunch, the lights were off, the door was locked. It was 1:30, and everyone was gone. Done. Nice way to start the weekend. I stayed a bit, checked me email and such, and awaited H1. She was supposed to be arriving around 4:00, so I had a bit of time. Went and got my haircut. It was just a trim but everyone I saw commented on it. Now, this kind of reaction would make sense if it was now blue or boy-short, but no. I'm not sure, but I think I'm gonna have to start putting more effort into my hair. But then again, I am extremely lazy, so we'll see. Hayley arrived. Went shopping for Vegas. Started drinking about 5:00. Started drinking heavily around 7:30. Went to the pool, First Friday and all. Tried to keep up with the adults and then ditched the party 45 seconds before clean up began. After party at the Chateau Stansfield, shots of JD are NOT a good idea, btw. James came in and asked to play Apples to Apples. For those who are unaware, James is 11, and it was 1:00am. To me this sounded like a great idea. I think James one, he always does. Passed the eff out, woke up to Hayley having to leave. I proceeded to sleep until 11:55. As I walked into the kitchen, my father commented that I was getting up to early, I mean what 23 year old gets up before noon, he think he's hilarious. As I started the search for fellow football watchers, A sinking suspicion that I was the only person left in the Greater Houston area fell over me. Between Possum Kingdom, Fort Worth, a Cruise, Nashville, College Station(don't really understand that one), and Austin(totally understand that one), I had some how managed to not solidify my football watching plans. Shame on me I know. So what do I do, I get crackin' on the phone calls. I lucked out however. First phone call, JR Foley. Jackpot. Me: "Hey, so I'm gonna come to Austin, but I don't have a ticket to the game". Foley:"It just so happens that I have an extra, get your ass to Austin". I love him. 30 minutes after I got up, I was in the car with my momma going to Austin for opening day, things sure can turn around quickly. To be continued...
This blog entry is in honor of, well Texas obviously, but also, to Jacqueline because she has totally got me thinking about Texas and its greatness for a couple of days now. Being in Thailand, you would expect the homesickness to create a need for more Texas. But I'm here, why do I crave it so? Because it is awesome is why. I just got back from lunch, which was BBQ. Mondays and Thursdays is Mexican. This new work schedule is great for fulfilling those cravings. But what else do I crave? What else is there to appreciate about Texas and the food that is ours and ours alone?
1) Blue Bell. Now I know they sell it in other states but c'mon, its Texas through and through. When people here ask if you want ice cream, they don't say "ice cream". They ask "do you want some Blue Bell". It's like pop vs. soda vs. coke. Brand recognition. Ya know what, you should have yourself a Blue Bell Country day.
2) Speaking of ice cream, lets DQ something different. Now I know most of you only eat their ice cream, and that is totally legit. But Dairy Queen also makes a mean chicken finger basket. The Hunger Buster isn't bad either. I recommend branching out and trying these delectable items.
3) Which of course brings about DQ's rival on chicken baskets, What-a-burger! I know its not spelled like that, but that's how the ads say it so I wanted to give you the true experience. With their awesome ketchup containers and Taquitos, truly, a Texas original.
4) Shiner anyone? We all know that other states pale in comparison to our greatness, but some of them redeem themselves by transplanting some of our treasures to their own boundaries. Living in Florida, I had Blue Bell so that was a life saver but no Shiner to be found. 6 months. That's how long I went without it. No wonder I was depressed. 5) To round out the top 5, I bow to the all mighty queso! With your golden color and spicy flavor you put me in a trance and make all the bad parts of life melt away. How I love thee, let me count the ways. Ya know what, I can't even begin to describe the love affair, so I will leave it at that.
At this point in the countdown, I am realizing this list is gonna be longer than I thought.
6) Kolaches. I'm not sure if ya'll understand that these are ours and ours alone. You go to the other coasts, they look at you like you're crazy. Better than a donut. Better than pig in a blanket. They're just great, great, great.
7) I realize that Mexican food is technically "Mexican", but we in Texas believe that ours is better. So rather than take the credit, I pay homage to our southern neighbors for giving us the inspiration and basis for our favorite staple food. 8) BBQ. All I have to say is that Memphis, Kansas City, and any other yahoo city who thinks that they are " The BBQ Capital", can suck it.
9) Some might consider this item to fall into some of the above categories, but I believe it stands alone. Breakfast tacos. From the gargantuanness of the Don Juan, to the sublimeness of Taco C at 4 in the morning, I salute you, creator of breakfast nirvana.
10) Another item that is found outside our state but we totally have claim over, Dr. Pepper. DP and DDP are such Texas staples that I have had cousins with Dr. Pepper themed decorations for there home coming parties. DP is home. Glorious with its syrupy awesomness. I'm a pepper, he's a pepper, she's a pepper, we're a pepper, wouldn't you like to be a pepper too? Honorable Mentions
A) Now I know this belongs to our neighbor more than us, but I would like to thank our eastern neighbor for: crawfish. It wouldn't be spring without a Saturday filled with ripping open shellfish while my fingers were on fire and dirty with spice and chugging beer to save my life.
B) Lonestar Beer. I had to mention it.
That was the food section, shall I continue...
Here goes... The Hill Country, Tubing on the Guadalupe, Friday Night Lights, "G"uadalupe and not "huadalupé", Gruene, 6th Street, Fredricksburg, Timber Cove, Pecan Pie, George Strait, Houston, The Czech Stop, Juan in a Million, Pecan Trees, Taylor Lake Village, Hruska's, Boating, Luminarios, Possum Kingdom, Ranches, Football: High School, College, NFL, Amy's Ice Cream, Bluebonnets, Boondoggle's, Reckless Kelly, Lake Travis, My Line of Trees, Max's Cafe, Horny Toads, Seabrook Classic Cafe, Astros, Austin, Varsity Blues, Nolan Ryan, Small ass Texas towns with college sized football stadiums, The Alamo, Walter Cronkite narrated "We are Texas"/ "What Starts Here Changes the World" ads,NASA, Dallas, Longhorns, Kay's Lounge, Maggie Mae's, Fort Worth, First Friday, Tilden, Shipley's, Big Bend, Frenchie's, Town Lake, Darcy, Trudy's, Enchanted Rock, Christmas on the Bridge, Tito's, Country accents, Pickup trucks, Ghostland Observatory, Lonesome Dove, and THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS.
