Wild Thanksgiving Festivities

 With the holidays just around the corner, Thanksgiving prep was chaotic! The grocery stores were like battlefields—carts bumping, shelves emptying, and people darting around like they were in a game of dodgeball. When Thanksgiving Day finally arrived, my boyfriend, Matt, came over, and we kicked things off by playing a few video games and watching some TV to pass the time before the big event. I won’t lie—I was a bundle of nerves. This was the moment: Matt’s first official meeting with my entire family. He’d already met my mom and grandma a few times, but this was the whole clan. No pressure, right? By 2:00, it was time to head out. We piled into the car and made our way to my mom’s cousin Lori’s house. As we pulled up, we saw family members arriving, arms full of delicious-looking side dishes, and our stomachs practically growled in anticipation. The smell wafting from the house was heavenly. Inside, the table was a feast for the senses: chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, creamed corn, and so many other mouthwatering dishes. It felt like a scene straight out of a foodie’s dream. After everyone stuffed themselves silly, the house buzzed with conversation and laughter. Little cousin Niko stole the show, running up and down the hallway like he was training for a toddler marathon. At one point, we had to stand by the china cabinet to prevent him from slamming into it, as he would charge down the hallway full speed and crash into the closet door. Eventually, around 4:00, Matt and I said our goodbyes, exchanged a few rounds of hugs, and promised to come back soon. We piled back into the car and made our way to his family’s Thanksgiving celebration for another round of feasting! While things were definitely a little less chaotic at Matt’s family’s house, the food? Still incredible. I thought I was done eating, but as soon as we walked in, I could practically hear my stomach begging for more. How could I resist the spread of turkey, stuffing, and more amazing dishes? It was all practically calling my name. Before diving into the second round of deliciousness, Matt, his brother, and I engaged in some fierce Mario Kart races. The competition was so intense that I’m pretty sure we were all more focused on that than we were on the food coma waiting for us. By the time dinner was ready, we’d worked up an appetite, but even with the adrenaline rush of the game, it was hard to keep shoveling in more food. We gathered around the table, stories flying in all directions. I felt like part of the family in no time, and the warmth and comfort of being surrounded by people who care made everything feel perfect, despite being so full I could barely move. By the time I finally got home, I was practically a walking food baby. I sank into the couch, fully aware that I was in for a night of sweet, sweet food-induced slumber. The only thing better than the food was the joy of spending the day with both families, and honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better Thanksgiving.

Plano Balloon Festival 2024

 It’s that time of year again—the Plano Balloon Festival! The weeks leading up to this spectacular event were filled with anticipation, and by Friday morning, I could barely contain my excitement. I sprang out of bed, ready to tackle the day ahead. With my brand-new water bottle filled, sunscreen and moisturizer perfectly applied, and a delicious bowl of leftover stir-fry devoured, I was practically out the door in record time. Every year, the volunteers meet at an offsite location, which sits cozily between two hotels. It’s like a little pre-festival hub of excitement! I checked in, grabbed my new volunteer shirt for the year, and headed straight to pick my balloon—this year, I chose the Haunted Mansion! The name alone sent a thrill down my spine, imagining how spectacular it would look floating above the crowds. As volunteers gathered, the head staff started some fun raffles. The prizes? Adorable balloon-themed goodies like swirly straws with cute mini balloons on top, pillowcases, pens, and makeup bags! I went straight for the swirly straw—it just screamed fun! Soon after, our pilot arrived, and we piled into the van, excitement bubbling in the air as we headed to the field. “If you haven’t realized by now, the balloon festival is a lot like the army—hurry up and wait,” our pilot quipped with a smile. And wait we did, sitting in the cool air conditioning of the van, swapping stories and soaking in the anticipation. Eventually, we made our way to the back of the field, where the delicious scent of Dickey’s BBQ wafted through the air. The low hum of laughter and conversation filled the tent as volunteers bonded over shared stories of past festivals and wild balloon adventures.

When it was time to meet up with our pilot again, we found him already setting out the basket and tarp, getting everything ready for the big moment. The air was electric, and you could feel the buzz of excitement building as we prepared to inflate the balloon. Working together, we pulled out the balloon, spreading it across the field like a massive, colorful creature waiting to come to life. The roar of the burner filled the air as the balloon began to inflate, and with each puff of air, the energy of the crowd grew. As the balloon finally stood tall and proud, the audience burst into cheers. The hair on my arms stood up as I felt the electricity of the moment—it was pure magic! Everyone was brimming with excitement, and the joy of seeing our balloon rise into the sky made all the waiting worth it. As the balloon glow came to an end, we helped our pilot pack up all the gear, working like a well-oiled machine to get everything loaded up so we could head back to the hotels. But just as we were in the middle of loading, the drone show kicked off, and the crowd erupted into cheers once again! Being front and center, it was like standing in a symphony of buzzing bees as the drones zipped through the sky, forming mesmerizing shapes and patterns. The colors danced across the night sky, and for a moment, we all forgot about the long day as we stood in awe of the dazzling display. Before we knew it, the drones landed, and it was time to pile back into the van. As we drove in peaceful silence toward the hotel, the exhaustion from the day starting to settle in, Keith—our pilot's co-partner—suddenly pointed out something unexpected: a praying mantis had hitched a ride on our windshield! My heart nearly leaped out of my chest as I spotted the little green creature. Bugs are not my thing, and the thought of it crawling any closer made me want to bury myself deep into my seat and disappear. I was practically counting down the seconds until we arrived back at the hotel parking lot. The moment we pulled in, I bolted out of the van like lightning—faster than I thought possible!

The next morning, I woke up with the same buzzing excitement—it was day two of volunteering, and I couldn’t wait to get back to the field! Once again, I’d be with the Haunted Mansion balloon crew, and while we were the last to head out to the field, spirits were high. Unfortunately, once we arrived, we got the news no balloon lover wants to hear: the winds were too high for us to set up the balloon that day. 

Disappointment settled in for a moment, but that didn’t last long. Dinner rolled around, and this time it was Mexican food—just what we needed to lift our spirits! As dusk fell, our pilot decided to participate in the candlestick burn, a thrilling display where they set up the basket and burner without the balloon fabric. The roar of the flame shooting into the night sky was exhilarating, and the warmth from the fire added a cozy touch to the evening. Despite the wind, a few other pilots decided to set up their balloons, and we got the chance to walk around and admire their vibrant colors and massive sizes up close. Even though we didn’t get to set up our own balloon that day, being surrounded by the beauty and energy of the festival made it a spectacular time. Watching the other balloons, chatting with fellow volunteers, and soaking in the excitement of the festival reminded me why I love this event so much. I left the field with a heart full of joy and a head full of memories, already looking forward to next year’s festival, where I’ll be back, ready to do it all over again! 

What Do I Want?

As I grow older, I realize more and more that there's one thing I want in my life above all else: peace. Well, maybe two things, because I also really want Mexican food, but you know. Peace is what I crave most deeply. I want friendships that aren’t fragile. I want relationships that aren’t volatile. I want people in my life where the connection isn’t delicate, where it isn’t easily broken. I want trust and open communication. I want it all to be as comfortable as possible, like worn-in, cozy sweatpants that allow room for growth and grace, much like drawstrings do. I don’t want conflict with anyone. I don’t want bitterness, anger, or awkwardness when we see each other. I can’t handle any of that "are we speaking? Are we not speaking? Are we friends? Are we cool face-to-face, but behind my back you’re spitting fire and bringing my name down?" kind of drama. My plate is full. Motherhood is a mental workout all day, every day. Adulthood in general is pretty stressful with bills, work, deadlines, and all of that business. I don’t want any drama. Not now. Not tomorrow. Not even in tiny doses. None. If you throw it my way, I hate to disappoint you, but I won’t even attempt to catch it. I don’t want chaos, turmoil, or any of that. I don’t want gossip. I don’t want to hear secrets that may or may not even be true. I mean, I’ll keep your secrets for sure, but I’m just going to extend compassion and assume everybody is doing the best they possibly can. And I’m good on the tea. I don’t need any. I prefer that fizzy, flavored water stuff anyway. Maybe a Diet Dr. Pepper. I want peace. And I’ve learned that sometimes it’s not really about keeping the peace. It’s about creating peace. It’s about confronting things head-on. It’s about asking good questions. It’s about listening. It’s about keeping my ridiculous knee-jerk reactions to myself. It’s about refusing to brush the difficult stuff under the rug and pretend it doesn’t exist until that rug becomes a mountain between me and my friend. It’s about talking things out and approaching every situation with kindness first. It’s about apologizing. It’s about maturity. It’s about boundaries and knowing that even when I give my best, not everyone will appreciate it, want it, or like it. It’s about loving them and letting them go from there. I know I’m a mess sometimes. I’m insecure and prideful, and I make so many mistakes. I’m so imperfect. I just… I dunno. I want peace. I want it to ooze out of me. I want it in me. I want it on me. I want it around me. I want it to come through me. No matter what anyone else is doing. I want peace. And tacos and stuff, obviously.

Immerse Yourself in the Melodic Marvel: Highlights from the Dallas International Guitar Festival 2024!

Are you prepared to immerse yourself in a symphony of strings, a melodic marvel, and an unforgettable musical journey? Look no further than the Dallas International Guitar Festival, where passion intertwines with performance, and every note reverberates with pure magic. This past weekend, the Dallas International Guitar Festival transformed the vibrant city into a haven for guitar enthusiasts, music aficionados, and anyone with a love for all things strings. From seasoned pros to eager beginners, the festival extended a warm welcome to all, inviting them to partake in a celebration of the most iconic instrument in music history. Imagine this: endless rows of vendors showcasing the latest gear, vintage treasures, and one-of-a-kind instruments awaiting discovery. Whether you were on the hunt for that elusive vintage Stratocaster or eager to explore the latest in pedalboard technology, the festival's marketplace had something for everyone and then some. It was a playground for guitar gearheads and a paradise for those looking to expand their musical arsenal. Yet, the Dallas International Guitar Festival was not merely about the gear—it served as a stage for some of the most electrifying performances you'll ever witness. As I arrived at the festival on Friday, my excitement was palpable! First on my list was Darren Wise, whose smooth shredding left the audience in awe. Following his performance, the Category Five stage beckoned with a blend of guitar sounds, featuring my good musician friend, Texas Slim! In its forty-fifth annual edition, Texas Slim mentioned it was his first time performing, having previously attended as a fan and supporter of other artists. While I could continue raving about the incredible performances throughout the weekend, let's not overlook the workshops and masterclasses led by industry titans and guitar virtuosos. Whether you aimed to refine your technique, unlock the secrets of songwriting, or simply absorb the wisdom of seasoned professionals, the festival offered a wealth of knowledge and inspiration for musicians of all levels. However, the most enchanting aspect of the Dallas International Guitar Festival was the sense of community that permeated every corner of the event. Whether you found yourself jamming with fellow guitarists, exchanging stories with vendors, or simply soaking in the collective love for music that filled the air, there was an undeniable feeling of camaraderie that made the festival feel like home. So, if you missed out on this weekend's festivities, fret not—there's always next year! Mark your calendars, tune your strings, and prepare to dive into a world of musical wonder at the Dallas International Guitar Festival. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, there's something for everyone at this iconic celebration of all things guitar. Until then, keep strumming, keep shredding, and keep the music alive! We eagerly anticipate seeing you at the next Dallas International Guitar Festival, where the magic of music awaits.

Neighborhood Friends

 The memories of my childhood neighborhood and the friends I grew up with are etched deeply in my heart. Among them, five of us formed an inseparable bond, becoming the ultimate running buddies. Jessie, who lived just three houses down from my childhood home, became my close friend through the tag team babysitting efforts of my older sister and her. Over time, she became a frequent visitor to our house, joining my sister and me in countless adventures. Then came Jack, who moved in two houses away, perfectly positioned between Jessie and me. I vividly recall the day Jessie and I sat in her front yard, eagerly watching as a moving truck pulled up to the house next door. As a new family emerged from the truck, Jessie wasted no time in urging me to join her in welcoming the newcomer who would soon become our third running buddy. Our friendship was marked by our unique "bird calls" - a code we developed to signal our desire to hang out. With a distinct sound, we'd summon each other to our chosen meeting spots, often makeshift forts that served as our secret hideouts. Our days were filled with endless scooter rides up and down the block, interrupted only by the call to return home as night fell. As if our trio wasn't enough, the arrival of a family of four on our cul-de-sac added even more excitement to our neighborhood adventures. Together, we navigated the twists and turns of childhood, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

Photography

 Stepping out into the radiant sunshine, camera in hand, fills me with anticipation. With eager eyes, I embark on a journey to explore the world around me, ready to immortalize its splendor through my lens. The bustling festival beckons, and I am drawn to captivating subjects at every turn. The glimmer of guitars catching the sunlight captivates me, their melodies enveloping me from all angles. I pause to capture the essence of the scene, freezing moments of musical magic for eternity. Faces adorned with joy and excitement become my focus, their expressions mirroring the euphoria of the live performances. As the day progresses, I find myself enraptured by the grandeur of the guitar festival. From the electrifying performances of Orianthi, Philip Sayce, to the legendary Eric Johnson, I am spellbound by the energy pulsating through the crowd. Each click of my camera immortalizes the passion and talent that permeates the air. With the sun bidding farewell, I make my way homeward, content yet invigorated by the day's adventures. Upon uploading my photos, I am greeted with a sense of gratification as I witness the festival's beauty and intricacy captured within each frame. Photography transcends mere image-capturing; it is a gateway to perceive the world anew, a medium for sharing my unique perspective with others. Hours melt away as I meticulously fine-tune my photographs, reveling in the transformative power of editing. With each adjustment, I witness the metamorphosis of an image, and a profound sense of accomplishment washes over me. I realize that my creations possess a storytelling ability that transcends words, capable of evoking emotions and inspiring wonder. As I continue on my photographic odyssey, I embrace the challenges that lie ahead with unwavering determination. With camera in hand, I venture forth, ready to uncover hidden treasures and unveil the world's mysteries through my lens. With each click, I reaffirm my purpose, knowing that I am precisely where I belong, pursuing my passion with unwavering zeal. As I gaze upon the test shots, a smile graces my lips, for I am blessed to embark on this extraordinary journey of discovery and expression.

Embracing Solitude: A Journey to Self-Acceptance and Empowerment

Being single is often perceived as a transitional phase, a waiting period until we find our "other half." But what if we reframed this perspective? What if being single was seen as an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and empowerment? In this blog post, we'll explore the journey of accepting and embracing being single, turning it into a fulfilling and enriching experience.

1. Self-Reflection: The first step in embracing being single is self-reflection. Take the time to understand yourself, your desires, and your goals. Reflect on past relationships, lessons learned, and areas for personal growth. Use this time to prioritize self-care, nourishing your mind, body, and soul.

2. Letting Go of Societal Expectations: Society often places pressure on individuals to be in a relationship, equating being single with loneliness or inadequacy. Challenge these societal norms and embrace your independence. Recognize that being single does not define your worth or happiness. Focus on building a fulfilling life on your own terms.

3. Cultivating Self-Love: Self-love is the foundation of accepting being single. Treat yourself with kindness, compassion, and respect. Celebrate your strengths, accomplishments, and uniqueness. Practice gratitude for the freedom and opportunities that being single affords you. Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment, whether it's pursuing hobbies, traveling, or spending time with loved ones.

4. Embracing Independence: Being single provides an opportunity to cultivate independence and self-reliance. Take advantage of this time to focus on personal growth and development. Set goals, pursue your passions, and invest in your career or education. Build a strong support network of friends and family who uplift and empower you.

5. Redefining Relationships: Being single does not mean being alone. Shift your focus from romantic relationships to meaningful connections with others. Nurture friendships, cultivate mentorships, and engage in your community. Surround yourself with positive influences who support your journey of self-acceptance and empowerment.

6. Embracing Freedom: One of the greatest benefits of being single is the freedom to explore and discover yourself. Embrace this freedom by stepping outside of your comfort zone, trying new experiences, and taking risks. Travel solo, attend events, and engage in activities that challenge and inspire you. Embrace the spontaneity and adventure that comes with being single. Accepting being single is a journey of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment. It's about embracing your independence, cultivating self-love, and redefining relationships on your own terms. By letting go of societal expectations and embracing your freedom, you can turn being single into a fulfilling and enriching experience. So, embrace solitude, embark on your journey of self-acceptance, and embrace the beauty of being single.

LiveNation Experience!!

Larkin Poe delivered an unforgettable performance at The Echo Lounge on February 23rd. Their soulful lyrics and mesmerizing slide guitar melodies created a unique and captivating sound that resonated with the audience. The intimate setting allowed the sisters to showcase their original songs, leaving everyone craving more. On that Thursday evening, I was fortunate to receive an incredible opportunity from LiveNation to photograph Larkin Poe at The Echo Lounge. It was my first LiveNation experience, and I'll admit, I was feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. As I arrived at the venue with my mom and her boyfriend, they dropped me off, and I couldn't help but feel like a kid on the first day of school. Standing outside the box office, I tried to calm my jitters while observing the bustling surroundings. To my surprise, standing right in front of me was Rebecca Lovell's husband, the lead guitarist of Larkin Poe's band. His presence added to my excitement as I eagerly awaited my turn to enter. Once inside the venue, I marveled at The Echo Lounge's stunning architecture as fans streamed in. Determined to find the "Photo Pit," I spotted another photographer setting up in a corner and decided to strike up a conversation. The night kicked off with an electrifying performance by Zach Person, whose solos captivated the crowd. Then, amidst the entrance song "White Room" by Cream, Larkin Poe took the stage, launching into their original song "Strike Gold." From that moment on, I was immersed in capturing every magical moment of their performance, fueled by adrenaline and the sheer joy of witnessing such talent.

The World Of Animal Crossing!

 Once upon a time in the idyllic world of Animal Crossing, a friendly and adventurous villager named Rosie arrived in the bustling town of Plano. With her cheery personality and love for gardening, Rosie quickly made friends with the other animal villagers and became a beloved member of the community. Every day, Rosie would wake up to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves and chirping birds. She would spend her mornings tending to her colorful flower garden, carefully watering each plant and ensuring they thrived. In the afternoons, she would explore the town, visiting her neighbors, participating in fun events, and helping out with various tasks. The town of Plano was a vibrant and lively place, filled with quirky characters and exciting activities. Rosie would often join her friends in fishing competitions, bug-catching contests, and even fossil hunts. She would attend lively festivals and enjoy delicious treats like cotton candy and popcorn. But it wasn't just about fun and games in Animal Crossing. Rosie also took pride in contributing to the community. She would donate rare fish and insects to the museum, help organize town clean-up days, and assist her neighbors with their errands and requests. In return, her fellow villagers would shower her with gratitude and small tokens of appreciation. As the days turned into weeks and months, Rosie's bond with the town and its residents grew stronger. She would celebrate birthdays, attend parties, and even go on exciting island adventures with her friends. The town of Plano became her second home, a place where she felt accepted, loved, and truly belonged. And so, Rosie's journey in Animal Crossing continued, filled with joy, friendship, and endless possibilities. Each day brought new surprises, new friendships, and new memories to cherish. In this charming world, Rosie learned the importance of community, kindness, and the simple pleasures of life. The endearing tale of Rosie and her adventures in Animal Crossing reminds us of the beauty of friendship, the joys of nature, and the magic that can be found in even the smallest of moments. In Animal Crossing, there are adorable animal villagers who live in the town alongside you. Each villager has their own unique personality and interests, making interactions with them exciting and entertaining. You can engage in conversations, help them with tasks, or even trade items with them. The game also follows real-time, so the time of day and season in the game mirrors that of the real world. This adds a touch of realism and immersion to the experience. Whether you're fishing by the river, catching bugs in the meadow, or decorating your own cozy home, Animal Crossing offers a delightful and relaxing escape into a charming virtual world.

You Did What?!

If you haven't experienced the WildFlower Festival in Richardson, you're truly missing out! This annual extravaganza boasts live music, delectable food, and a myriad of craft vendors. Picture May, with the sun blazing down, and that's the scene my best friend and I found ourselves in one unforgettable year. On that scorching day, my best friend called me up, inviting me to join her and her mom at the festival. Without a moment's hesitation, I enthusiastically agreed, and we were soon speeding our way to the venue. Upon arrival, we made a beeline for the tribute band stage, where a Fleetwood Mac tribute band had the crowd mesmerized. Energized by the music, we meandered over to the main stage, where the legendary John Mayall was captivating the audience. As Mayall's set drew to a close, anticipation mounted for Jimmie Vaughan's performance. We decided to explore a bit before his set began. But for me, the allure of the music beckoned, and I found myself yearning to return to the main stage. Reaching the hillside steps, where we intended to settle in for Vaughan's performance, I spotted some familiar faces among the crowd. Suddenly, the idea of venturing backstage piqued my interest. "I want to try and go backstage," I whispered to my friend, only to be met with skepticism about our ability to gain entry without passes. Undeterred, we lingered near the backstage area, appearing somewhat lost. Then, unexpectedly, a nearby security guard approached me, questioning our presence. Summoning courage, I explained that I knew people backstage and hoped to join them. In a surprising turn of events, the guard offered us his pass, granting us access to the coveted area. With heartbeats racing, we made our way past the gate, slipping into the backstage realm. It felt surreal to stand alongside my friends, amidst the buzz of the massive stage and the adoration of the crowd. That day remains etched in my memory as a truly magical moment, a testament to the unexpected joys that can unfold when you dare to seize opportunities. 

Best Rock Radio!

 KZEW was a legendary radio station in Dallas that played rock music. It was known as "The Zoo" and had a reputation for being wild and irreverent. The DJs were known for their outrageous antics, and the station sponsored many concerts and events. In the 1970s, KZEW was one of the most popular radio stations in the country, and it helped launch the careers of many famous musicians. One of the most famous events that KZEW sponsored was the Texas Jam, a massive outdoor concert that featured some of the biggest names in rock music. The first Texas Jam was held in 1978, and it was a huge success, drawing over 80,000 fans to the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. Over the years, the Texas Jam became a summer tradition. It featured legendary acts like Van Halen, Aerosmith, and ZZ Top. KZEW was also known for its annual Homegrown show. Although today, KZEW is no longer on the air. It will always be remembered as one of the most influential and beloved radio stations in Texas history.