We've always known that these two don't mix, but today we experienced it. We hung out with some very sweet friends, and we were blind-sided by the fact that they are staunch Obama supporters. While we believe everyone is entitled to their own opinion, it is hard to keep your lips shut when you feel like people may be misinformed. We (mostly Blake) shared our opinions gently. We just hope they will do a little more research before putting everything they have behind him. It's complicated, and I don't want to get into on the blog, but McCain isn't ideal either. We like to say he's the lesser of the two evils. Any way, I guess my point is that I hope young people, and older people as well, will truly look at the issues, character of each the candidate, and genuinely pray before making such an important decision such as who to vote for in the election.
As for the rest of our day, we ate at Hungary's for dinner because we found a coupon for buy one, get one half off. Yes! We also made the dredded trek to the grocery store--- old faithful, Fiesta. As ghetto as it is, their prices are pretty good except for cereal. For some reason, they've chosen to rip people off on cereal. Now, as our evening winds down we're going to watch "21" and drink some Moscato. Ciao for now!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Forreal this time.
In order to keep up with the Jones' (i.e. The Gaulkes), I've decided to start writing on our blog again. Earlier this summer writing seemed like it would be effortless with all of the time on our hands, but alas, many obstacles have kept this from coming true. Now we have electricity (always a good thing to keep on hand) and internet (Balkin45 ditched us last week) so we're back in business. We've had a load of fun this summer hanging out with one another and others. We've explored this crazy city (without getting too lost, thanks to the iphone), and still have much more to see. We love the endless restaurant options and sites. We've had friends down to visit and we've gone to visit the "bearded one" in Austin as well. We've made some new friends--Hunter and Ashleigh-- amongst others and we've gotten to catch up with some old pals as well...hitting up the Guadalupe with Kirsten, Jeff, Haley, and Zack. It's kind of sad because what seemed like an endless summer is now on the brink of setting below the horizon. For the past few days, Blake and I have been setting up my classroom, which has been a lot of fun. He's been a huge help! We also picked up his white coat or as we affectionately call it-- his red coat (the red coats are coming!!). Now we have a concert, bachelorette weekend (for me), and two weddings then school starts! Crazy! It'll try to keep up with this thing a little better though--forreal this time.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
We've Moved!
I know it has been a very long time since I've posted on this blog, but I thought I would try to keep up with it a little better. Last week we packed up all of our stuff (mostly mine) and moved down to Houston. We're very close to the medical center, which will be great for Blake when he starts school in August. I, on the other hand, will have to drive about 25 minutes to get to school, but that's alright with me (for now). We don't officially have jobs for the summer, but we are headed to camp in a few days. Blake will be the official drummer for the worshp band, and I will be a "sponsor" for the high school camp. It's a camp, but it will be held at some condos on the beach in Gulf Shores. I actually have to go now because I need to be productive. I need to help my wonderful husband pack for our trip. I will fill everyone in on our time in Houston so far later (hopefully, tomorrow).
Monday, December 24, 2007
Things to Do
North Texas History Museum
Herby's Soda Fountain: This is one of the neatest places on the square to get a snack. It looks an old 50's diner. If you go, you have to get a milk shake. I know it will be cold, but it's totally worth it. Their fries are really good too. Address: 210 North Tennessee. Hours: They probably close about 6pm.
Bath Junkie: This is a chain, but it's pretty cool to make your own bath stuff. Website: http://www.bathjunkie.com/ Address: 201 N. Kentucky
Shopping:
There are tons of shops on the square, but I'm going to list some of my favorites.
Clyde's on the Square: Some of the best antiques on the square. You gotta check it out. Website: http://www.clydesonthesquare.com/ Address: It faces the courthouse on the main part of the square. 102 E. Louisiana
Ambrosia: They have some very unique items that have a vintage feel. Address: 201 E. Virginia.
The French Mix: I love this store! All of their stuff is very different and fun. It has a huge Eiffel Tower on the sidewalk outside. Website: http://www.thefrenchmix.com/ Address: 200 E. Louisiana
Society: I went in there the other day for the first time. It's really cool. Lots of candles and unique home decor. Address: 104 W. Virginia
120, Inc.: This has always been one of my favorite stores on the square. It has very cute gifts. Address: 205-B N. Kentucky
Another Time and Place: This is one of the most unique shops on the square. It reminds me of World Market with a more personal touch. The people who own it actually go all over the world and bring things back to their shop. Ask about them to whoever is behind the counter. I love their jewellry as well. Address: 115 E. Virginia
The Book Gallery: This is a book-lovers heaven. They stock many rare and gently used books-- a glorified Half-Price Books, if you will. Even if you're not in the market to buy, it's fun to look at all of the old books they have. Address: 207 N.Tennessee.
Orison's: This store has really neat art and clothing. The owner is very sweet and accomodating. Address: 113 E. Virginia
The Cup Filler: A Christian bookstore filled to the brim with neat gifts. Address: 109 E. Virginia.
Here are some things to do in McKinney (non-shopping):
Chestnut Square: Historical homes and a beautiful church. We took our engagement pictures there. It's fun to walk around there. http://www.chestnutsquare.org/
Walls of Clay: This is a really cute shop on the square where you can paint pottery! I worked there in high school, and I loved it. You could paint Christmas ornaments or a bowl or something fun. If you end up going there, let me know because my mom will have to pick up the pottery a week later so I can bring it to you in College Station or whenever. It usually takes about a week to get it glazed and fired. It's worth it though. Their address is 115 W. Virginia. If you're standing at Rick's Chophouse, facing the courthouse, you would walk to your left. Then take a left at Virginia. It's on the left side of the street with pottery in the window.
North Texas History Museum: This building also includes the Collin County and Post Office Museum. It includes lots of unique stories about the area. It is about a block from the main part of the square. It's easy to walk from the hotel. There are a couple of different exhibits including Civil War and Pioneer. Website: http://www.northtexashistorycenter.org/ Hours: Mon.-Sat. 11am-4pm. Sun. 12:30-4:30pm.
Heard-Craig Museum: They have an indoor nature museum and sanctuary outside. At this time of the year, the indoor museum is probably your best bet. Kids like this museum a lot because it's very hands-on. It is a short drive from downtown. Directions are on their website. Website: http://www.heardmuseum.org/
Mom and POPcorn Company: This place has over 45 different flavors of popcorn, and they will give you samples of any of them! They also have old-fashioned sodas and nostalgic candy. They are located on square. Website: http://www.momandpopcorn.com/. Address: 215 E. Louisiana St. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9-5; Sat. 10-5 and Sun. 12-4.
Herby's Soda Fountain: This is one of the neatest places on the square to get a snack. It looks an old 50's diner. If you go, you have to get a milk shake. I know it will be cold, but it's totally worth it. Their fries are really good too. Address: 210 North Tennessee. Hours: They probably close about 6pm.
Bath Junkie: This is a chain, but it's pretty cool to make your own bath stuff. Website: http://www.bathjunkie.com/ Address: 201 N. Kentucky
Shopping:
There are tons of shops on the square, but I'm going to list some of my favorites.
Clyde's on the Square: Some of the best antiques on the square. You gotta check it out. Website: http://www.clydesonthesquare.com/ Address: It faces the courthouse on the main part of the square. 102 E. Louisiana
Ambrosia: They have some very unique items that have a vintage feel. Address: 201 E. Virginia.
The French Mix: I love this store! All of their stuff is very different and fun. It has a huge Eiffel Tower on the sidewalk outside. Website: http://www.thefrenchmix.com/ Address: 200 E. Louisiana
Society: I went in there the other day for the first time. It's really cool. Lots of candles and unique home decor. Address: 104 W. Virginia
120, Inc.: This has always been one of my favorite stores on the square. It has very cute gifts. Address: 205-B N. Kentucky
Another Time and Place: This is one of the most unique shops on the square. It reminds me of World Market with a more personal touch. The people who own it actually go all over the world and bring things back to their shop. Ask about them to whoever is behind the counter. I love their jewellry as well. Address: 115 E. Virginia
The Book Gallery: This is a book-lovers heaven. They stock many rare and gently used books-- a glorified Half-Price Books, if you will. Even if you're not in the market to buy, it's fun to look at all of the old books they have. Address: 207 N.Tennessee.
Orison's: This store has really neat art and clothing. The owner is very sweet and accomodating. Address: 113 E. Virginia
The Cup Filler: A Christian bookstore filled to the brim with neat gifts. Address: 109 E. Virginia.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Wedding Weekend
Here are some places to check out if you're coming to McKinney for the wedding.
Price Ranges
$$$= $15-20+
$$ = $10-15
$ = $5-10
Lunch and Dinner:
$$$
Rick's Chop House: Steaks and fine foods. Located directly under the hotel. Everything is very good. They will be providing the food at the wedding, but it will just be hors d' ouerves so if you want to make reservations for Saturday night after the wedding, you could do that as well. Blake and I will be leaving the reception at 8pm. The number is 214-726-9251. Their website is http://www.rickschophouse.com/
Good Hues Woodfire Grill: This is another traditional steakhouse. It's very good as well. Their number is 972-562-7570. Website is http://www.goodhuesgrill.com/
$$
Mama Emilia's: This is excellent Italian food. They have an amazing Sunday brunch. You will probably need reservations for Sunday for a large group. Their number is 972-562-1102.
$
Poppy's: This is an outdoor/indoor grill and bar. They have live music sometimes, and it is the most casual of all the restaurants I've listed so far. Their number is 972.562.8386. Website is http://www.poppys-gardencafe.com/.
Spoon's Cafe: This is a really fun little cafe that has really good food. It is also very casual. They have lots of sandwiches and stuff. You can call to see about reservations if you want, but they are the least likely to need reservations. I might recommend this restaurant for lunch on Saturday or Sunday. They serve breakfast all day. Their phone number is 972-548-6900. Their website is http://www.spoonscafe.com/.
San Miguel Grill: They are the best Tex-Mex in McKinney. We love to eat there! You don't need to make reservations, but there might be a short wait. It is not on the square, but it is not very far. The address is 506 W University McKinney, TX 75069. Phone number is 972-548-2345.
Cafe Malaga: This is a tapas bar on the square. They also have pizzas. I've never eaten there, but I've heard it's good. I don't know if you will need reservations, but your can check out the website or call to check. The website is http://www.cafemalaga.com/ and phone number is 972-542-9996.
The Pantry: They have the best pies!! Their soups, sandwiches, and salads are very good as well. Call 972-542-2411 for group reservations and the website is http://www.thepantryrestaurant.net/.
Baker's Drive-in: This is a fun and easy place to grab a great hamburger and fries! Address: 1001 S. McDonald St. Directions: From the Grand Hotel, take a left onto Louisiana from the hotel parking lot. When you get to McDonald St. take a right. You will see the drive-in on the left.
After-dinner hangout spots (Coffee and Drinks):
La Misha: A cute little place with lots of cool coffee drinks and other things. It is right next to Rick's Chophouse on the square. http://www.lamisha.com/
Cadillac Pizza Pub: This is a cool place to hang out. They have live music every weekend night. They are right off the square less than a block from the Grand hotel. The address is 112 Kentucky St.
The Londoner: This is a British pub on the square. They have pool and it's a fun place to hang out. Address: 100 N Kentucky.
Aparicio's Mexican Restaurant: They have really good fajitas and breakfast. Address: 216 E. Virginia. Phone: 214-733-8600
Landon's Winery: You can get a glass of a variety of wines here. It's right next door to Rick's Chophouse. Address: 101 N. Kentucky. Phone: 972-542-3030. Website: http://www.landonwinery.com/
Rick's Chophouse Bar: Located right in the restaurant (below the ballroom). It has a really fun atmosphere! See information for Rick's above.
Breakfast:
Bill Smith's Cafe: This is a classic breakfast place in McKinney. Address: 1500 W. University Dr. Phone: 972-542-5331
Donuts R More: This is a good place to go donuts on the go. It's very close to the downtown square. Address: 101 N. McDonald St.
These are not all of the restaurants in McKinney, obviously, but these are most of the nice ones within walking disance. Here is the chamber of commerce website with a list of other restaurants in McKinney http://www.mckinneytx.org/chambers/mckinney.nsf/viewbuilder?ReadForm&category=Restaurants.
Price Ranges
$$$= $15-20+
$$ = $10-15
$ = $5-10
Lunch and Dinner:
$$$
Rick's Chop House: Steaks and fine foods. Located directly under the hotel. Everything is very good. They will be providing the food at the wedding, but it will just be hors d' ouerves so if you want to make reservations for Saturday night after the wedding, you could do that as well. Blake and I will be leaving the reception at 8pm. The number is 214-726-9251. Their website is http://www.rickschophouse.com/
Good Hues Woodfire Grill: This is another traditional steakhouse. It's very good as well. Their number is 972-562-7570. Website is http://www.goodhuesgrill.com/
$$
Mama Emilia's: This is excellent Italian food. They have an amazing Sunday brunch. You will probably need reservations for Sunday for a large group. Their number is 972-562-1102.
$
Poppy's: This is an outdoor/indoor grill and bar. They have live music sometimes, and it is the most casual of all the restaurants I've listed so far. Their number is 972.562.8386. Website is http://www.poppys-gardencafe.com/.
Spoon's Cafe: This is a really fun little cafe that has really good food. It is also very casual. They have lots of sandwiches and stuff. You can call to see about reservations if you want, but they are the least likely to need reservations. I might recommend this restaurant for lunch on Saturday or Sunday. They serve breakfast all day. Their phone number is 972-548-6900. Their website is http://www.spoonscafe.com/.
San Miguel Grill: They are the best Tex-Mex in McKinney. We love to eat there! You don't need to make reservations, but there might be a short wait. It is not on the square, but it is not very far. The address is 506 W University McKinney, TX 75069. Phone number is 972-548-2345.
Cafe Malaga: This is a tapas bar on the square. They also have pizzas. I've never eaten there, but I've heard it's good. I don't know if you will need reservations, but your can check out the website or call to check. The website is http://www.cafemalaga.com/ and phone number is 972-542-9996.
The Pantry: They have the best pies!! Their soups, sandwiches, and salads are very good as well. Call 972-542-2411 for group reservations and the website is http://www.thepantryrestaurant.net/.
Baker's Drive-in: This is a fun and easy place to grab a great hamburger and fries! Address: 1001 S. McDonald St. Directions: From the Grand Hotel, take a left onto Louisiana from the hotel parking lot. When you get to McDonald St. take a right. You will see the drive-in on the left.
After-dinner hangout spots (Coffee and Drinks):
La Misha: A cute little place with lots of cool coffee drinks and other things. It is right next to Rick's Chophouse on the square. http://www.lamisha.com/
Cadillac Pizza Pub: This is a cool place to hang out. They have live music every weekend night. They are right off the square less than a block from the Grand hotel. The address is 112 Kentucky St.
The Londoner: This is a British pub on the square. They have pool and it's a fun place to hang out. Address: 100 N Kentucky.
Aparicio's Mexican Restaurant: They have really good fajitas and breakfast. Address: 216 E. Virginia. Phone: 214-733-8600
Landon's Winery: You can get a glass of a variety of wines here. It's right next door to Rick's Chophouse. Address: 101 N. Kentucky. Phone: 972-542-3030. Website: http://www.landonwinery.com/
Rick's Chophouse Bar: Located right in the restaurant (below the ballroom). It has a really fun atmosphere! See information for Rick's above.
Breakfast:
Bill Smith's Cafe: This is a classic breakfast place in McKinney. Address: 1500 W. University Dr. Phone: 972-542-5331
Donuts R More: This is a good place to go donuts on the go. It's very close to the downtown square. Address: 101 N. McDonald St.
These are not all of the restaurants in McKinney, obviously, but these are most of the nice ones within walking disance. Here is the chamber of commerce website with a list of other restaurants in McKinney http://www.mckinneytx.org/chambers/mckinney.nsf/viewbuilder?ReadForm&category=Restaurants.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
We're Engaged!
We're getting married!! Blake and I have been engaged since Feburary 24, 2007 and this is slide show of his proposal to me at Lake Somerville. My roommate Holly and her boyfriend were in on the whole thing. Holly is the one who took all of the pictures. After a surprise dinner with our families, there was another surprise waiting for me at my apartment--a bunch of my friends to celebrate with! He did a wonderful job and I was totally surprised. We can't wait to get married on January 5!
Yesterday, we had our first shower. It was a couple's shower so Blake was there to enjoy the wonderful event with me. My next door neighbors, April and Terry,and some other family friends, Connie and Christina did an amazing job with everything. We had a great turnout and it was so good to see everyone.
I'm going to try to keep up with this blog to keep everyone updated about what's going on with the wedding!
Yesterday, we had our first shower. It was a couple's shower so Blake was there to enjoy the wonderful event with me. My next door neighbors, April and Terry,and some other family friends, Connie and Christina did an amazing job with everything. We had a great turnout and it was so good to see everyone.
I'm going to try to keep up with this blog to keep everyone updated about what's going on with the wedding!
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