Setting the Pace on the Lake

I have recently taken the liberty of excusing myself from blogging due to my busy travel and social life that took over the month of August. On a whim, my friend Jessica and I took a two week trip to Australia.  Australia lived up to our expectations and we succeeded in saturating every moment with kangaroos, koalas and of course adventure that could fill up a blog all of its own. However, I digress, as I am here to blog about Austin; and Austin, I am back and I still love you dearly. :-)

After acclimating myself back to routine I was more than thankful to have a three day weekend to soak up all that I love about Austin. Going out with friends, dinner at a new restaurant, swimming at Barton Springs, brunch, watching a friend play tennis, swimming at the pool, parties in the neighborhood, and of course a new adventure! 

As September hit Austin the 100+ degree weather finally dropped back down to somewhere in the 80's range and completely bearable and perfect for a day at the lake. Today my friend Emily agreed to take me up on checking out Pace Bend Park on Lake Travis, with Lucy, a picnic, and a few beers in tow. Just about 30 minutes West of Austin off HW-71, Pace Bend offers hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding, cliff jumping, swimming, and access points for boats and jet skis. With nine miles of shoreline there was no shortage of peaceful quite areas to park our car and have a relaxing day on the beach, even on Labor day. 

Having heard Pace Bend was a leash free area I knew Lucy would be in heaven when I opened the car door leading her to her freedom. Just out of the car and slathering on sunscreen we were abruptly informed by the unpleasant park ranger that Lucy was only allowed off leash in the water and what we thought was a fact was only a false rumor. I fully blame that man for the splotchy burn and the subsequent stubbed toe and cut finger that I suffered chasing Lucy when she spotted a vulture... 

Shortly after the setback of the rule enforcement a man in a truck with two jet skis parked himself right next to our picnic. Yes, I am completely aware of how assuming it is for a man with no other friends present to park his two jet skis next to two women on the beach. However, it is not surprising that we obliged his offer to ride his said jet skis that afternoon. Ranger Rain on Our Parade also informed us we were in the wrong area for jet skiing. We quickly moved out of his jurisdiction and had a pleasant afternoon with no further interruptions. At this point we canceled any plans to take a hike and spent the afternoon jet skiing and playing fetch with Lucy, in the water, of course. 

We departed our jet ski friend and journeyed further along the shoreline to watch brave souls jump the limestone cliffs several stories high into the water. As much fun as jumping off cliffs sounds, I plan on saving that challenge for the next excursion to Pace Bend. I also plan on making the trip back to Pace Bend quicker than I got out there in the first place. I am shocked it took me so long to venture out to this park because we absolutely loved it! 

http://www.co.travis.tx.us/tnr/parks/pace_bend.asp

Love IN Austin!

Besides things I love about Austin, I love that Harlan and Casi are IN Austin so that can be a part of their lives. More specifically I love that I was a part of their recent engagement story. Had you asked me 10 years ago if I was going to be a part of my brother Harlan's proposal or even liked him enough to be around long enough to get to know his girlfriend I would have laughed out loud. Growing up, Harlan and I fought like cats and dogs and got in arguments just so we might get the other person in trouble. Now, we talk daily and I can't remember if we've fought since High School. 

A series of events led Harlan to make the decision to propose to his girlfriend, Casi, this weekend. I guess that's how it normally works out, but Harlan's original plan was foiled due to an unexpectedly discovered email to Casi's mother. While worse things have happened (cause she essentially said yes when she realized what she had stumbled upon), Harlan was incredibly disappointed. I quickly worked to make Harlan feel better about the situation and develop a new and even better scheme. 

Fortunately, there are a lot of wonderful places in Austin to propose, however, it isn't so easy to get a suspecting girlfriend to said places on short notice. Harlan created a convincing email that we sent through my friend Emily's cousin who works in a reasonable position at the Capitol with a logical involvement in "Austin Young Chamber of Commerce", that invited us lovely ladies to Zilker Botanical Gardens on a Saturday evening happy hour. 

Casi recently agreed to be my wing woman as needed so I was able to easily convince her this would be a good opportunity for her to excel in her new position if she were to join me. Harlan and I worked out the exact details as Casi readily agreed to join me at this free happy hour. Not allowing much time for error, I helped Casi get ready. I rushed her along and ensured her wine glass was never empty. Casi was none the wiser to my tricks and went right along with our plan. 

We walked along our path... I urged Casi forward and stopped walking as Harlan came out from nowhere. Their special moment was out of ear shot but it seems the point got across and Harlan snagged himself a fiancé by the end of the conversation. Casi's family and best friend were hidden out of the way and came and joined the couple after the question was... well implied... Harlan forgot to say the words, will you marry me? Good thing she helped him along and asked, "was there something you wanted to ask me?" 

After the pictures were taken, we all went for a wonderful dinner at Parkside, of course. Harlan was able to impress his future in-laws with a superb meal and excellent service. Celebrations lasted well into the night and the happy couple never went without a smile. 

I am thrilled that I have a new future family member and that I was able to be a part of the momentous occasion! I love that family lives in Austin and we were able to pull of a wonderful night. 

http://www.zilkergarden.org/

http://www.parkside-austin.com/

Barton History Lesson Springs

In case you didn't already know, at one point in my life I majored in History. Today, when looking for a few fun facts about Barton Springs I was overwhelmed/kinda excited about the rich history related to Barton Springs. No lie, the thought crossed my mind to do a fun research project on Barton Springs. Go ahead...call me a nerd. Don't worry, I will keep the facts to a minimum so no one gets bored!

According to just about any source Barton Springs is the crown jewel, must see, number one natural tourist attraction in all of Austin. If you don't believe me just check in with the Olmec people who roamed in 5,500 B.C., Indian tribes who took a dip along the Comanche Trail, the famed conquistador Cabeza de Vaca, Franciscan Friars on their way to San Antonio, or Uncle Billy Barton. While all of these people endured the Texas heat and relished in the wonders of Barton Springs they are all now, in fact, deceased. With that said, I would just take my word for it. Barton Springs is awesome.

Barton Springs is a series of springs enclosed by man made walls spanning nearly 3 acres to create the largest natural swimming pool in an urban area. The fresh water is constantly fed by fissures in the limestone floor of a rate 26 million gallons a day! Unlike your typical neighborhood pool the water in Barton Springs will always remain a cool 68 degrees since it is constantly flowing from underground. After catching some sun on the grassy knoll it is always a test of courage to take the plunge into the icy cool water. Besides having your heart stop due to shock you will be surprised to find the pool floor is muddy, rocky, and full of algae and plant life. For the truly daring there are diving boards.

On any given day at Barton Springs you will have exceptional people watching opportunities. Austin's finest from the topless to the full body tattoos are on display. Some musically inclined will bring their bongos or guitar and then, out of nowhere, girls in hula hoops appear. Often you hear the barking dogs on the outside of Barton Springs on the "free side" where there is no regulation and distinct smells of the grassy nature. It's ironic how inside the gates lifeguards are strict on the rules of no food or drinks, however just on the other side of the fence illegal activity is politely asked to be put away by the police that occasionally patrol.

Free side or not, it is only $3 dollars and you know it goes to pay the lifeguards and keep the pool natural and beautiful. There has been a charge on the pool since the 1800's when Uncle Billy Barton owned the land. Barton later donated the land to the city of Waterloo - when it became the new Texas Capitol in 1839 (it all comes together now... Waterloo records, Icehouse etc... Austin's namesake before it was Austin).

The only recorded person who ever disliked Barton Springs was none other than Sam Houston, bitter about Austin (errr Waterloo) becoming the capital city of Texas and fearing Indians he stated; loosely, he wouldn't risk his scalp to the @%&* hole called Austin. While good old Sammy may have had some valid points I would be willing to take that risk to call Barton Springs my home! I love love love the amazingness of Barton Springs and maybe one day I can bore you with the full length history lesson!



http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/bartonsprings.htm

http://www.texasescapes.com/SplashAcrossTexas/BartonSpringsTexas/BartonSpringsAustinTexas.htm

http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/parks/pools_schedule.htm

Indiana Jones Adventure

In keeping with the Alamo Drafthouse theme... I would like to recall my favorite adventure with my good friend Trever. Up until now all the events have been current but I cannot neglect to recount the Indiana Jones Adventure. I am no Indiana Jones movie buff nor do I really care to be the first person to see any movie but yet again I was convinced by Trever to tag along for something different. 

By tag along I mean Trever needed me to purchase tickets to the said adventure as I was the only one willing to put both tickets on my credit card knowing full well it would take a month to get paid back. (I love you trev! :-))

In 2008, when Indiana Jones Kingdom of the Crystal Skull opened we joined about 60 mega fans on a tour bus around Austin for "one-of-a-kind danger flavored excursion." No lie, that's what their blog said. http://blog.originalalamo.com/category/uncategorized/page/17/. With that kind of marketing how could I pass it up?

Our excursion began on a Wednesday afternoon and provided an "Indy Fedora" and an unlimited supply of Tecate (cause that's what Indiana Jones drinks when he drinks beer, obvi) for the bus ride to Cypress Valley Canopy Tours. If we could hear it over the excitement of the crowd, Indiana Jones movies played on repeat for our entertainment.   A short ride later we arrived and were asked to secure our fedoras for some zip-lining through the forest. It's like a roller coaster in the woods! I have some pretty quality pictures from this. I don't recall but I believe we were then to search for artifacts throughout the forest. I'm thinking I missed this to zip line a second time or chat it up with the new friend Trever and I made, Zach, who happened to be the guy who organizes special events for the Alamo Drafthouse. 

Next, we were on to a studio on the East Side to watch "Texas Snake Man" Jackie Bibby charm snakes. Jackie Bibby is not your average snake charmer... this man is a world record holder for some pretty safe choices in life. He played with the snakes, sat in a tub full of snakes (87 is his record) and put 10 rattlesnakes in his mouth and swung them around like it was no big deal. We watched him do the latter while we were provided the fine cuisine of alligator and naturally... rattlesnake. It tasted like chicken! With a little more beer we left the studio and returned to the Alamo Drafthouse to return to our strategically reserved seats for the midnight showing of Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. 

The movie was ridiculous.... aliens... really? I won't be watching that again anytime soon. The adventure was also ridiculous, in a good way though. I loved it and I obviously have not forgotten how an average movie can be awesome at the Alamo, even if it is just for one night. 

http://www.texsnakeman.com/

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0367882/

Movies to the Max

When I moved to Austin I knew music was big deal, but I had no idea about the film culture that thrives here. One of my first roommates, Trever, moved to Austin because he was so obsessed with film and movie scene. He enlightened me to the likes of independent film, horror flicks, actors and directors from Austin, movies filmed in Austin, and of course, the Alamo Drafthouse. Supposedly, one of the main reasons why Trever moved to Austin was for this unique movie theater. At first it seemed a little strange to me that someone would move to a city for a movie theater. However, I have since learned that various publications such as Entertainment Weekly have named the Alamo Drafthouse as the best movie theater in the U.S.!

What's so great about a movie theater that you move to a city for it? For one thing, this movie theater serves alcohol. Need I say more? Probably not, but allow me to elaborate.

To accompany your beverages of choice you can also order food - and not just bar food, but chef prepared originals related to classic movies or specific to movies opening that month. For example you can get the "Godfather" pizza, obviously loaded with marinara and other Italian toppings; or right now you can get "The Carrie" a classic cosmopolitan. The food is always changing and always a treat.

Beyond the promotion of local food and beer choices the Alamo Drafthouse expands the movie going experience by offering unique movie openings and events to the extreme. Recently the Back to the Future Trilogy was presented with 4 actual Delorians and an appearance by Christoper Lloyd - Doc Brown in the flesh! For the opening of Transformers a car crushing machine/transformer entertained in . Sex in the City openings have included prizes to local boutiques, a pair of Manolo Blahnick shoes, character related furniture, and of course signature drinks. Trever convinced me to go to the Indiana Jones premier that included a bus ride to zip line in the woods, tasting rattlesnake, and of course snake charmers. For July 4th weekend I am sad I will miss the sold out Jaws event held on Lake Travis. The rolling road show is projecting Jaws while guests float in the water with surprise "shark attacks" and "killer prizes".

The events of the Alamo don't end at new movies. There are weekly events such as Weird Wednesday  and Terror Tuesday - late night screenings of exploitation movies from the '70s and horror flicks from the '80s. It is a blast from the past for only a dollar! I have never been, but they also have Master Pancake theater where comedians make light of various movies, sing-a-longs and quote-a-longs to classic movies, and special screenings of big games or finales of TV shows. Any night of the week you will find an original event held at one of the 3 original Austin Alamo locations.

The owners of the Alamo have allowed their business to expand out of Austin to other towns such as Houston and San Antonio with hopes to open more than 200 other Alamo Drafthouse locations throughout the country. These other locations will be franchised so it is unlikely they will be able to compare to the original Alamo in the heart of downtown Austin on 6th street. I suppose Austin can share its gem of a movie theater with other cities, but let's not forget where the original began!

http://www.drafthouse.com/
http://blog.originalalamo.com/
The awesome pictures are from my friend Andrew's website http://www.requiemamericana.com/

Flying Away

There comes a time when I have to leave Austin and seek adventure elsewhere. When I do leave I obviously have things to look forward to, even though I'll probably miss something fun going on in Austin. Nonetheless, all is not lost when I fly out of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. 

Yep that's right, I love ABIA. I have traveled a lot and I can compare our little airport with the rest of the world and I know that this airport is special. Austin is a small city, so naturally we have a small airport that is easy to get through and navigate. Yet, despite the small size, Austin is not limited in ability to ensure efficient and timely travels as well as provide all guests with a uniquely Austin experience from the moment they touch down until the second they leave. 

To begin with, arriving an hour in advance to the airport is more than enough time for any flight so I never have to leave Austin any earlier than necessary. If I do have a little extra time I can eat at any one of the local restaurants I would normally drive all over town for, right in the terminal. I can stop anywhere from the Salt Lick to Amy's Ice Cream to get a taste of Austin before I leave. You won't find a McDonald's or Panda Express in this terminal. You also won't find a Brookstone but I can pick up a gift at a local store like Waterloo Records or Book People. For guests of Austin it is clear supporting local business is our pride and passion. 

After a long trip it is nice to feel at home the moment I step off the plane. I know I am home when I hear the sound of live music greeting me in the baggage claim.  With the music and guitar sculptures any person can see Austinites take the "Live Music Capital of the World" title seriously.

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport provides an atmosphere with local pride and welcoming elements that make me realize how fortunate I am to call this place home!


http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/austinairport/default.htm

BRUNCH!

It's been established I like trying new things. I also really like food. Naturally, I like eat out at various restaurants around Austin. When I was a poor graduate student my only chance to eat out was when I was taken on a date; but now, a working woman, I can afford a nice meal for myself! 

While I still enjoy that free meal that accompanies dates I quickly feign interest and I am on my own again for dinner. Girlfriends are a great option for dining out, but they often get invited to their own free meals and then where does that leave me?  Well, since I have read Never Eat Alone, by Keith Ferazzi, eating alone is just not an option...or something like that. 

Lucky for me, my brother Harlan came to the rescue by moving to Austin just in time.  Theoretically, the best part of Harlan living in Austin is that I get to spend more time with him. However, our work schedules conflict so we have a standing date for Church and brunch every Sunday morning. 

Prior to our first Sunday brunch date I had been to brunch maybe 3 times in Austin. Considering we had no reference for where to go so we first went to Taverna, because everyone knows they have $1 bellini's and $1 mimosas. After this meal we decided both kept our eyes open for other places that served Sunday brunch. 

We quickly found that brunch in Austin is a BIG DEAL. Every type of restaurant from hotels to dive bars open their doors on Sunday morning for specials on drinks, a lavish buffet, or their rendition of eggs Benedict. Dining experiences vary from the classic to contemporary, the cheap to overpriced, places you can walk right up to to those that are worth the wait.  It is evident that some patrons go to brunch to be seen while others are attempting to survive their hangover.  

With so many places to choose from we generally look for good drink specials first. As Harlan likes to say, "the only thing that gets me through Church this early in the morning is knowing I can drink afterwards." Any wonder we are Catholic? Narrowing down our options to good drink specials one has to weigh the cost, is it better to have "bottomless", a carafe, or cheap individual mimosas? Next we must allow those places with a great reputation and no drink specials to sway us because lets be honest, a mimosa is virtually the same anywhere you go, but an egg is certainly not the same at every restaurant. Then of course, lets not forget, buffet or individual plates? Lastly we allow every other factor from price to time they open determine where we settle on for the day. According to Chowhound there are almost 2,000 restaurants in Austin, and Urbanspoon will tell you about 169 places that serve brunch but I know for a fact many are not listed. Oh the decisions. 

Considering this is a weekly activity and I have only been to about 10 or 12 restaurants out of at least 200. I have a long way to go. From my calculations that will take about 4 years to complete. I will be an expert by that point but for now these are my 3 top choices:

Food: Olivia  olivia-austin.com

Buffet: Moonshine  www.moonshinegrill.com

Drinks: Taverna www.tavernabylombardi.com

I also know that within the next few months I would like to try - Paggi House, Lamberts, Bess, Union Park, and Franks but really I want to try ALL the places with brunch in Austin!


I will keep you posted on what I discover and, if you ever want to join Harlan and I for brunch we are open to guests at our table!