So far, everything tastes better in Texas....

Hola from Tejas!! Forgive me for taking FOREVER to post about my journey to the big state. These past two weeks have been kind of crazy and so much has happened that I thought to make it easier for myself, (and you guys to read), I would make a list of fun facts/juicy nuggets of info that will hopefully keep you guys satisfied for the time being.

1) My mom and I drove 900 MILES two days after Christmas to Beaumont, Texas. I had no idea we were capable of driving that many miles in one day, but once we got that pedal to the metal, there was no stopping us until we reached the state of Texas. We stayed in a real, classy joint (hah!), but much to our pleasure, there was a Carabba's within walking distance of our motel, and you can only imagine how amazing it was to enjoy wine without having to worry about driving home.

2) The next day, we woke up bright and early and found Herby safe and sound in our secure location. (Naturally, I was a little worried he might be broken into because my entire life was crammed into space bags in his back-seat). We set out to drive the measly four hours to Austin, which was a piece of cake compared to what we had just been through. Seriously, five states in a day, who does that? We made a quick pit stop in Houston (Emz's place of birth) to see some of our cousins and then were on our way.

3) When we finally arrived in Austin, we decided not to unpack everything. We just wanted to get it out of the car, and then my mom and I checked into her hotel at the Omni and ordered in room service. It was just what I needed to make the trek to Ikea in the morning. I got my bed, dresser, first piece of art-work (a black and white portrait of Miss Audrey Hepburn), cute bobbles for my very own bathroom (I have never, ever had my own 'powder room' so you can darn well guess the thing is pink'd out and as girly as I want it, damnit), and basically everything else you can imagine you would need for your first apartment. Thanks, mom!

4) My mom spent her last night with me in my apartment and left the morning of New Years Eve. I was so sad to see her go, but I know her and my dad will be back soon. They have a special place in their hearts for Texas.

5) New Years was amazing. Thanks to Liz's sister, Allison, we had a VIP table at Maggie Mae's on 6th street and bottle service all night. Oh, and I got my first, real New Years kiss. Sorry guys, but that's all the details I'm going to give at the moment...hehe.

6) The boys here are really nice. You know when you see a really attractive guy and you automatically tag him as a "player" or a "womanizer," as Brit would say. Well, lets just say, Liz and I have been proven wrong on various accounts. I guess you really can't judge a book by its cover, and even if you've been wronged in the past, it doesn't mean that all hotties just want to get in your pants. (haha Emz's dating lesson of the day). Or maybe, it's just Texas. I swear this state breeds a different type of male, dare I say, a better male?! Don't kill me, boys.....

7) The food here is really good. Like, really, really, freaking good. The roomie and I have taken up a new hobby of trying to find the best queso in Austin. It's our favorite guilty pleasure and has been quite the feat to undertake in Texas, where it all tastes exceptional, (especially after a couple margaritas).

8) As far as the job search, I have to keep reminding myself that we've only been here for two weeks and these things don't just happen over night. I've sent my resume to numerous publications in town and even hand-delivered a few, and as of now, I've gotten a couple bites. I'm just playing the waiting game and doing a lot of wishing, hoping, and praying. But, I feel like 2009 is going to be my best year yet. It's already brought me so many surprises, and I'm excited to see what's in store for me.

Alright, well it's getting late, and I have to get up early and go check out some couches we found on craigslist. Currently, Liz and I have been chilling in front of my 12-inch TV on blow-up furniture. I know we will remember these times forever when we had to rough it a little, but I am so excited for our new adventure, and can't wait for some of you guys to come visit.