Kemah's Carousel

"...And the seasons they go 'round and 'round

And the painted ponies go up and down

We're captive on the carousel of time

We can't return we can only look behind

From where we came

And go 'round and 'round and 'round

In the circle game..."

From Joni Miller's "The Circle Game"

This photograph was taken just this weekend on the Kemah Boardwalk.  It was a such a beautiful day!

What a Ham!

I drive by this pig on Westheimer regularly and was finally able to get a picture today!  Logan Farms Honey Glazed Hams & Market Cafe' has two Houston area locations with it's primary facility here on Westheimer.  I notice they offer special discounts for employees of local companies throughout the work week, and the parking lot is usually full during lunch.  I can't speak of the food because I haven't eaten here yet, but with a full parking lot it looks promising!

Urban Leasing

*Photo provided by Urban Leasing

Today, we're doing things a little differently.  A representative of Urban Leasing contacted me and asked if I'd be interested in sharing a photo with you.  When I browsed their website and saw the picture, I was happy to help!  According to their website, Urban Leasing is "...a new-breed of agency who knows Houston's top properties inside and out."  They specialize in helping people find a Houston area townhouse, condo, apartment, or loft to call home.  

This panoramic picture of our beautiful skyline and Buffalo Bayou was taken from a downtown loft.  Can you imagine waking up to this view every morning?  I could get used to that!

Have a great weekend!

Portico at West 8

These apartments, the Portico at West 8, are located near Westheimer and Beltway 8 in the Westchase District on the southwest side of town.  I just love the look of these apartments and you can't beat the location!

Bird's Eye View of the Red Cat Jazz Cafe'

During our Anniversary weekend, we enjoyed a nice evening at the Red Cat Jazz Cafe' downtown.  We listened to beautiful renditions of the classics such as Etta James' "At Last" and Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine"! 

Happy Friday, Everyone!

Hotel Icon

Hello, everyone...I've missed you!  I have a few pictures I'd like to share with you within the next few days.

My amazing husband and I spent our One-Year Wedding Anniversary at Hotel Icon located downtown recently.  It was the first time either of us had stayed there and we were really impressed with the decor, the lavishness, and the food!  I took this picture on the spur of the moment (with my iphone) in the lobby.  I love the chic drapery, the modern lighting, and the overall feel of the room.

According to the hotel's website, the bank building was built in 1911 and was subsequently occupied by Union National Bank.  The building was renovated into the beautiful hotel it is today for around $35 Million!

Need a place to stay downtown?  Give Hotel Icon a try! 

Tea Time at Yao's!

On Valentine's Day my Husband and I went to Yao Restaurant & Bar, which is owned by Yao Ming's family. 

We thoroughly enjoyed the meal, the ambiance, and the tea!  We ordered the Jasmine Fairy tea, which is not to be missed!  The tea blooms like a flower as it steeps, and the teapot is set on a stand which holds a tealight to keep the tea warm continually.  Additionally, the tea is served with rock sugar (similar to rock candy). 

With all this talk of tea I think it's time for me to go steep a nice cup of English Breakfast!

Berrryhill in the Heights!

Lu and I went and had lunch at Berryhill in the Heights this weekend, which is where I saw this fun arrangement hanging from the ceiling.  Berryhill has some of the best fish tacos I've ever eaten!  Their Spinach & Corn Tamales and their Beef Chimicangas are also incredible!

Let it Snow!

A picture like this on any other photoblog may be common...but not this one!  Today, Houston got it's earliest snowfall in recorded history.  We were expected to get anywhere from 4 to 6 inches.  It only snows in Houston once every blue moon, and when it does the city takes a day off.  Children were sent home early from school, and businesses shut down early.  Today, I also saw a grown man walking down the street with his tongue out trying to catch a snowflake!  Ah, I just love the SNOW!

Happy Friday!

The Fred Hartman Bridge

Driving along the Fred Hartman Bridge.  More information about this beautiful structure can be found here.

The Skinny Christmas Tree!

I saw this while out-and-about shopping over the weekend and thought I would share it with you! I hope you had a great Thanksgiving!

Skyline

A nice view of the skyline. Happy Friday, Everyone!

Pet Goat

I will admit the quality of this photo is not up to par; however, it was the best I could do under the circumstances.

I was driving through Manvel, which is a small town south of Houston, and spotted this adorable pet goat in the front yard of a home. He wagged his tail like a dog and even had his own doghouse on the front porch of the home. I thought he was so cute!

The Silver Lining

I took this picture yesterday evening at the corner of Hughes/Sabo and Beltway 8 in the southeast part of town.

The past few days I can feel the change in the air...I'm ready for fall...and the amazing October sunsets!

The Red Guy

I saw this on a local convenience store dumpster enclosure the other day. It looks stenciled but cool nonetheless.

The Leading Lady

Last night I saw Theatre Under the Star's (TUTS) performance of 42nd Street starring Lorretta Swit at the Miller Outdoor Theatre. While walking through a portion of Hermann Park I spotted a "leading lady" of sorts. I just loved how the setting sun was her spotlight!

Happy Friday!

Fountain

Enjoying a quiet moment by the fountain at work...

Genghis Grill

My husband and I and a few of our friends went out to Genghis Grill for dinner recently. Much to our delight, dinner was amazing!

Genghis Grill is unique in that you choose exactly what you want in your bowl. You choose the protein (meat or tofu), spices, veggies, sauces, and a starch you want and they cook it for you on a circular grill. According to the Genghis Grill website, "...According to this legend, 12th century Mongol warriors, led by the mighty warrior GENGHIS KHAN, heated their shields over open fires to grill food in the fields of battle!..."

I took this picture of my husband's bowl just before he took his first bite!

Rudi Lechner's

Hi, everybody! This is Rudi Lechner, owner of Rudi Lechner's Restaurant & Bar. If you are ever in the mood for great German food, this is the place! There is live music at Rudi's on Wednesday through Saturday evenings where you can see a Swiss Alphorn! (In fact, the man in the white shirt to the right of Rudi was playing the Swiss Alphorn when this picture was taken.)

Also at Rudi's, they invite you to "loosen your lederhosen" and celebrate Oktoberfest every Wednesday night with a German buffet!

In this photo, Rudi is making his famous, "Gutte Nacht Kaffe."

Happy 4th of July!

Go Rockets!

Tonight is Game 6 of the LA Lakers/Houston Rockets Playoff Series. Tip off is tonight around 8:30 PM (Central) at the Toyota Center located downtown. Go Rockets!!

House of Worship

Yesterday while out driving around downtown I saw this beautiful gate to a house of worship. I just had to show you! Isn't it festive?

The 8th Wonder of the World!

Today's spontaneous photo...meaning I literally pulled into the center median (typically for emergencies only) to snap this picture, then immediately got back into the flow of lunch time traffic...is of Houston's Astrodome!

This spectacular structure is considered "The Eigth Wonder of the World", and was the first ballpark to have a roof over the playing field.

This facility used to be home to the Houston Oilers ("American" Football), and the Houston Astros (Baseball).

Since then, the Reliant Stadium (Home of the Houston Texans) and Minute Maid Park (Home of the Houston Astros) have been built.

Currently, the beloved Astrodome stands vacant, with it's future unknown. Recently, I received an email via the Greater Houston Preservation Alliance requesting help Saving Our Astrodome! Check it out!

*By the way, this Saturday the Houston Texans Cheerleaders are holding try-outs if anyone is interested! ;-)

Supporting Our Rockets!

Well, it has been quite a long time since I've uploaded any pictures...and I have missed it terribly! I can't promise that I will be able to post a picture everyday, but I will do my best to update regularly.

So much has happened since we've last seen you! Megan graduated from high school on June 6, 2008 and is going to school full-time at a local community college. She is getting her basics out of the way now, and will study Marine Biology. I graduated at UHCL with a Double Bachelor's of Business Administration in Management & Marketing on December 14, 2007. Now I am working on a state certification in Commercial Real Estate Appraisals. I've been with my company for almost four years and really enjoy it!

Also, I got engaged this past Christmas Eve and am soooo excited! The BIG DAY is May 30, 2009...so needless to say we have been crazy busy with all the planning! Lu and I have been together for 4 years this coming August 8th, and I can't wait for us to start the next chapter!

Last night, the Houston Rockets played their last game in the regular season. We lost to the Dallas Mavericks, but are set to play Portland in Game 1, Round 1 of the Playoffs on Saturday, April 18th. I took this picture of Yao Ming playing Poker with my iPhone. The Rockets held a party this past December at Toyota Center for Season Ticket Holders. (I only wish we had Season Tickets! One day...) Anyway, we love our Rockets here in Houston and will be cheering them on through the Playoffs!

Thanks for stopping by as always! Feels great to be back!
Candice

So Many Excuses, So Few Pictures

Well, unfortunately, I can't keep up with anything but work and school right now. Finals are coming up next week, which I'm excited/anxious about. Again, I'd like to ask for a mini hiatus.

Maybe we should move to a lovely spot in Europe where life is calm, and relaxing is second nature. :-) Let's discuss it, shall we? If you could move anywhere, where would it be? Or tell us why you think your city is the ideal place to be.

In anticipation of summer, I leave you with another beautiful shot of the Sunrise over the Gulf of Mexico...until next time...

Monkey Butt

I saw this yesterday and just had to take a picture. At the Exxon on the Southwest Freeway and Weslayan, workers are completely remodeling the building. I wonder about these men!

A Nation in Mourning

I spotted this flag today on Richmond and thought it was perfect for today's picture. Please remember Virginia Tech in your thoughts and prayers.

And We're Back...

Hello everyone! We're not as rested as we'd like to be but excited to be back nonetheless. This past weekend we attended the US Men's Claycourt Championships here in Houston at the Westside Tennis Club. (Well, the Westside Tennis and Fitness Center now.)

Unfortunately, this was the last year for the tourney here in Houston. Westside is moving towards the "Fitness" part of the name and will be offering yoga, pilates...you name it. Here is a picture from the Gallery Furniture Stadium at Westside. It is such a great, little stadium. Megan took this picture on Saturday during the Peya-Phau/Knowles-Nestor doubles match. To see the draw sheet of the tournament go here.

Are there any other big tennis fans out there?

"Vacationing" the Next 2 Weeks

As much as it bothers me to do this...I think it's time for a little break. As you can tell, life has been incredibly hectic around here with work and school. I haven't been able to do much else...even the things I love. In fact, I just realized (two days late) that we were supposed to participate in April's Theme Day! So, I've decided to take the next 2 weeks off for a "vacation." We will rest up, get refreshed, and will be back here on Monday, April 16th.

Please stop by then...we will be excited to see you!

Early Morning Sun

This was a beautiful sunrise. I hope you had a great day.

Free Advertisement

Yesterday I noticed this on the side of a Metro bus downtown. Home Depot is having a sale...

Rockets Game!

This is from my lovely TV at home. I watched the Rockets play the Bucks last night...which they won 106-87. I loved the score in this picture!

A "Witche's" Present

This "artwork" is on a fence (obviously) in between two buildings on Richmond. I saw it on Friday coming home from work and couldn't resist taking a picture.

*Isn't is supposed to be a "witch's" present though?*

Thanks for your patience with us...it's been a hectic week.

Candice & Megan

Hoping For a Pretty Day

One day at lunch I spotted all of these cars being washed at Bubbles on Kirby. It was a beautiful day...I hope today will be just as nice.

Take a look at the woman under the blue umbrella waiting for her car to be finished...poor thing!

Have a great day!

The Masterpieces of French Painting

This past Thursday we had an incredible evening at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. They are having an exhibit of the Masterpieces of French Painting from the Metropolitan Museum. We saw spectacular paintings...some very famous. It is going on until May, and I highly recommend seeing it. It is truly incredible.

Also on Thursday, Gregory Curtis held a lecture at the museum on the first painters in history...The Cave Painters. I bought his book and am excited to read it. It was such a lovely day.

Art Car...or Van

I saw this very cool looking van in the parking lot of the Museum of Fine Arts Houston in the museum district recently. I just had to take a picture. Around town you can spot several festively decorated vehicles, lovingly called, "Art Cars."

Another shot at IAH

We're Back! We have had a nice Spring Break and are back in the swing of things.

This is another shot from Bush Intercontinental Airport. The blue and silver statue/sculptue doodad caught my eye.

IAH

First off, let me apologize for not posting the last few days...I have been on Spring Break. I have worked all week and have been absolutely exhausted. But I would like to catch you guys up today.

Megan went to New York City this week with her High School Choir and we just picked her up Wednesday afternoon. I took this picture as we were entering the parking area for Terminal C at Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Notice the rain on the windshield? The weather was awful Wednesday...it even hailed on the way to the airport!

St. Mary's Orphan Asylum

We spotted this early Saturday morning on the Seawall of Galveston. I love the personal touch of the flowers adorning the sign. To read about this amazing spot in history go here, here, and here.

Sunrise in Galveston

We dropped off Megan at her school at 3am Saturday morning because her school choir went to New York City for Spring Break. After dropping her off, we decided it would be nice to see the sunrise in Galveston...so we drove down there and stopped on the seawall. It was just wonderful! I love the sun's rays in this picture!

I just love the beach...don't you? To see live pictures from webcams at the island go here and to read about Galveston's fasication history go here.

Red Bull

Walking out of class on Thursday night I spotted a Red Bull Mini Cooper. I just had to take a picture. Have any of you seen these around your parts of the world?

Flags

Here are the flags that line Lakewood Church...Happy Thursday!

Are You Drinking At-Risk?

I couldn't help but notice a poster today in the Student Services Building on campus...undoubtedly for the "Spring Breakers." It reads, "Are You Drinking At-Risk?" and goes on to explain the maximum you should drink and what constitues as "a drink." For example, men should have no more than 4 drinks a day or more than 14 a week, and women should have no more than 3 drinks a day or more than 7 drinks a week.

These numbers seem ridiculously high to me...but I am not a drinker so whatever...

For all of you people who will begin Spring Break sometime within the next 24 - 48 hours...be careful...and have fun!

Another Man at Work...

I took this last week while searching for men at work. There was only one man working on these condos...poor guy. He is doing a great job though!

Have a great day, everyone!

Sweet Tooth...

I have a bit of a sweet tooth tonight...I took this picture a while back and have saved it for a day like today. These little cakes made at the local grocery store bakery look so good!

More Sunsets

Here is another unbelieveable sunset...

I hope you had a wonderful weekend...Here is to another week...

Ready for Summer...

I was just surfing through Megan's pictures and found this really cool one that I thought you would like. This is a reflection of the sunset in our pool. Can you tell we're ready for summer?

Happy Friday!

For those of you who don't know...Cingular has recently merged with AT&T. The other day we just showed you a picture of the largest Cingular store in Houston...well, yesterday while searching for "men at work" I spotted these men switching the Cingular logo to the AT&T logo. I am always amazed at how quickly things change...

As Heraclitus said, "Nothing endures but change."

Men "At Work"

It's Theme Day again! Today's theme for the world of Daily Photos is "Men at Work." Three men (as we speak) are surveying the building I work in. I couldn't help but snap a shot of one of the guys..."working."

62 Daily Photo sites are participating in the 1st March theme, "Men at work." Please use the links below to see men at work around the world. Due to time zone differences and other factors, the theme photo may not be displayed until later if you are viewing early in the day.

1 (Greenville SC (USA) ) -2 (Hyde (UK) ) -3 (Tenerife (Spain) ) -4 (Albuquerque, NM (USA) ) -5 (Stayton, OR (USA) ) -6 (Rotterdam (NL) ) -7 (Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) ) -8 (London (England) ) -9 (Richmond, VA (USA) ) -10 (Sydney -Sally (Australia) ) -11 (Newcastle upon Tyne (England) ) -12 (Constanta (Romania) ) -13 (Evry (France) ) -14 (Lubbock, TX (USA) ) -15 (Szentes (Hungary) ) -16 (Villigen (Switzerland) ) -17 (Mumbai (India) ) -18 (Tel Aviv (Israel) ) -19 (Twin Cities, MN [USA] ) -20 (Jakarta (Indonesia) ) -21 (Houston -Candice & Megan, TX (USA) ) -22 (Budapest (Hungary) ) -23 (Singapore - Zannnie (Singapore) ) -24 (Dubai (UAE) ) -25 (Singapore -Keropokman (Singapore) ) -26 (Madrid -Dsole (Spain) ) -27 (Mazatlan -Kate (Mexico) ) -28 (Nelson (New Zealand) ) -29 (Vantaa (Finland) ) -30 (Kyoto (Japan) ) -31 (Tokyo (Japan) ) -32 (Joplin, MO (USA) ) -33 (Auckland (New Zealand) ) -34 (Sequim, WA (USA) ) -35 (Menton (France) ) -36 (Minneapolis, MN (USA) ) -37 (Istanbul (Turkey) ) -38 (Sydney -Nathalie (Australia) ) -39 (Sharon, CT (USA) ) -40 (Seattle, WA (USA) ) -41 (Anderson, SC (USA) ) -42 (Monte Carlo, (Monaco) ) -43 (Milano, (Italy) ) -44 (Grenoble (France) ) -45 (Wailea, HI (USA) ) -46 (Guelph, ON (Canada) ) -47 (Melbourne - John (Australia) ) -48 (New York City (USA) [Ming_the_Merciless] ) -49 (Cebu (Philippines) ) -50 (Bandung (Indonesia) ) -51 (Antigua Guatemala (Central America) ) -52 (Hamburg (Germany) ) -53 (London -Jonemo (UK) ) -54 (Hong Kong ) -55 (Stavanger (Norway) ) -56 (Paris (France) ) -57 (Naples, Florida (USA) ) -58 (Saarbrücken (Germany) ) -59 (Shanghai (China) ) -60 (Quito (Ecuador) ) -61 (Zurich (Switzerland) ) -62 (Joensuu ( Finland ) ) -63 (Aliso Viejo, CA (USA) ) -64 (Cheltenham (England) ) -65 (Brussels (Belgium)) -

Birds

This must be the "hang out" for the birds...

Old Pictures

I was searching through some of Megan's pictures and stumbled upon this one of a cool building downtown from Bagby...