Making Up for Lost Time

So, I didn't post yesterday. Or the day before. And I didn't really post much the two days before that. I'm very sorry for that, but I can't say I really regret it. I fully understand why people say that they'd rather only post once a week... but then again if I did that I'd probably stop blogging altogether.

While I love blogging, it really is a solitary endeavor. I'm grateful for that fact because it fills in some of my free time, but it also makes it hard when you're entertaining or have a full schedule. I need at least an hour or two to compose a decent post (for length and style, not to mention editing the content afterward) and when you have a friend in town that you don't even want to part with for the length of time it takes to shower, blogging is going to be a problem, as will the ensuing depression when she's left (which kills any creativity I might be feeling very quickly).

That's why I haven't posted a whole bunch the past few days. And while I said I would post every day, well I guess I lied. I know you'll forgive me... But I'm back now and ready to fill you in on all my adventures!

So, I picked up my friend from the airport on Friday with my father and took her to Roost. The place was packed and since they don't accept reservations we had a bit of a wait. The host was very nice, though, so it wasn't too painful. Once we were seated we were very pleased with the food and the knowledgeable server, though the restaurant was very loud. It's pretty cramped on the floor and there's no form of noise dampening, so conversation was a little forced. Otherwise it was a lovely dinner.

Next I dragged my friend out to Poison Girl (of course). Once again, I love that bar. So did my girlfriend. As we were sitting outside she looked around and said, "This is not what I expected from Houston at all." I guess I don't remember the misconceptions that people hold about Houston. When I say 'Houston' what comes to mind for me is oak trees, museums, Tex-Mex, funky shops, pools, etc. Guess I'm lucky...

Houston is hard to show off. When it comes to somewhere to eat, it's no problem to find amazing restaurants and bars to check out. Want to catch a movie? There are theatres everywhere. Shopping? That's easy. But one of the problems of Houston is the fact that it really isn't a tourist town. There's no area to take a tourist, or any particular point of interest that jumps out when they ask what there is to do. Don't get me wrong, there are a lot of beautiful museums and parks, the ocean isn't too far, downtown is pretty cool... but there's no "must see" aspect of Houston. Who really wants to go on a tour of all the medical centers? That's really nice to have around, but it's not really good tour to take unless you're in the backseat and can nap the whole time. So what are the best things to do?

In my opinion, there are a couple Houston highlights. Forget the Galleria, downtown, etc. Here's a list of my favorite places that are a 'must see' while I'm in town.

1) The Natural History Museum - also a favorite from my childhood. I have spent many a wonderful afternoon there, and it's also the only place I will eat McDonald's.

2) The Houston Zoo. The animal enclosures are large and they have an incredible collection of animals from all over the world. Some of the birds are ones I have never seen elsewhere. Also, I'm a reptile freak and envision their reptile house when I read any of the reptile related scenes in Harry Potter. A strange association, but a strong one.

3) The Menil. This free museum boasts an incredible collection of art from all over the world and is a privately funded organization. The area surrounding the museum is a cool and shady park filled with gorgeous oak trees. The Rothko Chapel is close by as well, which is always lovely for a quiet sit-down and some meditation. The energy in the Chapel is incredible, unlike any place I have ever been before.

4) The River Oaks Theatre. I went and saw Brokeback Mountain there when it was released and still treasure the experience. It's a really funky space... and they have a full bar! I went to the midnight showing of Fast Times at Ridgemont High with my friend when she was here and it was incredible. I will certainly return for a midnight showing of Rocky Horror Picture Show at some point.

Other than those places, it's just the typical. Tex-Mex, shopping, etc. While there are different parts of Houston that are special to me, I can't say I visit them with any frequency, though I do want to get to know some of the crazy art projects better like The Orange Show, etc. 

So, of course I took my friend to those places (except the Natural History Museum and the Zoo. We just didn't have enough time). We also went out to the farm, which would be #1 on my list if it were in Houston/open to the public. For now it's my family's private paradise.

Getting ready to go give the horses some carrots.

Also: Torchy's Tacos = amazing. Loved the breakfast tacos, and the cute manager doesn't hurt, either...

The weather here has been fabulous which was lovely for my friend to experience. The temperature is in the low 80's during the day and cools down to low 60's at night. My only problem with it is the fact that they crank the AC down to subzero temperatures out of some misguided principal that there should be a significant temperature difference. Honestly, most places feel like they have the AC set at 60. During the winter in Colorado I generally set my heat to 68-70 (this is all F, btw)... what gives? I have been freezing half the time here and have taken to carrying a jacket with me wherever I go. I guess I'll get used to it, but I can only imagine what this summer is going to be like...

So, all said, we had a great time together. My friend left Easter morning and while I've done some fun things since then (all the enjoyable Easter activities a non-believer indulges in; mimosas, Mexican food, and loud music), I've been getting a little depressed again. While I'm really excited to head to Jordan, it doesn't feel like reality yet. My mind is buzzing with Houston energy and the prospect of creating a life here, thinking about going to Jordan for a month is almost inconceivable. I've been in Houston less than a month, and I'm going to Jordan to spend a full month... It's almost beyond comprehension. I am thrilled, though. 

Also, I was lucky enough to meet some people who have an interest in Islamic art and they gave me a few leads for my time in Jordan. Who knows? Maybe I'll be a travel blogger who focuses on art...? I could think of worse things.

Well, I must compose some emails and take care of other business. I'm going to Ava this evening with my father, so I'll let you know what I think of it tomorrow.

Cheers!

Oh, and here's a song to leave you with... Sea Wolf is amazing.