Pecan Street Festival

Yesterday, Andrew and I spent the entire day in downtown Austin at the bi-annual Pecan Street Festival. Located on what is known as 6th street today, approximately 300,000 people come from all over the United States to participate in the largest festival in Central Texas.

Festival goers can find arts and crafts of all sorts including jewelry, sculptures, paintings, cowboy hats, and more. (My favorite tent is always the one full of Amber jewelry.) And for a little entertainment, various bands could be heard performing on the five different stages scattered throughout the festival. I even ran into a few street performers looking to make a few bucks in tips. (This was my very first live accordion player).



Street Musician

But what people, including myself, may not be expecting is the out of this world street food. Funnel cakes, gyros, turkey legs, beer, and snow cones found its way into many stomachs. I even found a Cajun food stand straight from Louisiana. They were serving good ol' southern food from the bayou, and I mean straight from the bayou. It wasn't long before my curiosity took over and I was eating fried alligator on a stick. It was actually incredibly tasty, with a fried chicken like flavor and chewy texture. But just add a drizzle of ranch dressing and you're all set! Who knew!

If the food wasn't fulfilling your thrill-seeking needs, there was even a small petting zoo and an assortment of thrilling rides for the children to enjoy. I even spotted a few balloon animal artists and face painters amongst the crowd.

Pony Rides

If that still wasn't enough, the architecture that lines the entertainment districts are so beautiful and full of character. I learned that the streets are lined with many commercial buildings and historical houses dating back from the late 1800's and early 1900's. Today, these buildings house numerous entertainment venues, bars, cafes, and art galleries (some of which I have visited).

I also learned that when Edwin Waller was designing the street plans for Austin, the north-south streets were given the names of Texas rivers in the order in which they appeared on the Texas map. The east-west streets were then given the names of trees but were later turned into numbers. Apparently, the Old Pecan Street Spring and Fall Festivals honor the original name of the street as well as create money to preserve it and keep it beautiful. I think that is a great way to protect what makes up this great city. So thanks to this 30 year tradition that has become 100% Austin, family and friends have a great way to spend time with each other and help the city in return.

Officially the first day of FALL!!

It seems as though I've been waiting an incredibly long time for this day to arrive. It is Thursday, September 23rd, 2010 in case you didn't know, and it just so happens to be my favorite day of the year. It's the day that signifies the first official day of Autumn - my favorite season.

tis' the season with Starbucks

I love everything about it - the smell, the colors, the weather - literally everything about it! I love going to soccer and football games. I love wearing scarves and jackets and tons of layers. I love that I can drink hot cocoa. I love that some days are warm and some days are cold and that you have to pay attention to the weather in order to know what to wear that day. I love that the air is filled with smells of cinnamon and spice. I love seeing various squash and lines of pumpkins at the farmers market. I love walking into a craft store and seeing decorative items for Thanksgiving. I love cuddling up on the couch with a blanket and watching movies like "When Harry Met Sally" or "Stepmom". Turning the air conditioning off and opening up the windows makes me incredibly happy. Eating soup again and cooking comfort food gives me something to look forward to. Doing things like sitting outside and watching the leaves change and fall can be so uplifting. I mean the list just goes on and on. 



I don't think my smile could get any bigger...SOOO HAPPY!!



With everything I love about the Autumn season, I decided to celebrate this year's return by drinking my first Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks. Up until a few years ago, I wouldn't even go near anything pumpkin. But there is something about this drink alone that stands out as the best thing about Fall. It happens to be my favorite thing to order at Starbucks and I look forward to it every year. You may remember that I wrote a similar blog while I was in Korea last year. I searched high and low all around Seoul for this little beverage, and to my utter dismay, I was never able to taste the sweet liquid. To be honest, my Fall felt incomplete and it's taken until this day to realize what was missing. I am so glad I was able to start this season off right. So thank you Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte. I don't know what I'd do without you!

The Best Date With Myself

drip. drip. drop.
drop. drip. drip. drop.

This is the sound I've been hearing regularly the last few weeks. Being originally from upstate New York, rain is not an unfamiliar weather pattern. But after living in the dry desert for the past few years, I can't help but be in awe every time it rains. I always hated rain growing up. I mean, it would ruin my play dates in the park after all! But now, I seem to find myself always looking forward to a good rainy day.

Nonetheless, tonight was one of those wishy, washy rainy evenings where it would rain, then stop, then rain some more - you get the idea. It just happens that I was alone, something I have become unaccustomed to living with my boyfriend Andrew. I love being with him and I love living with him just the same. But on this lonely, rainy night, I was happy to be companionless.

I stood at the counter eating a salad made up of all the vegetables in my refrigerator. I drank crystal light. I surfed the net and listened to some chic music. I practiced the same song on my guitar over and over in the living room. I took a hot bubble bath, something I rarely do. (Please note that I bathe regularly. I've just always been a shower girl. Tonight seemed like a good night to make peace with my inner-girl.) While thoroughly enjoying my bath, I read another chapter of Bergdorf Blondes, a mindless book about single female socialites gallivanting around New York City, while listening to classical solo piano music from my laptop close by. Then to top this rainy, single-yet not really single girl night, I dusted off what I refer to as the bible (my Sex and the City ultimate DVD collection) and watched one of my favorite episodes. It's the one titled "Ex and the City", (episode 18, season 2) where Carrie finds out Mr. Big is engaged to Natasha what's her face and the four girls sit around a table discussing how Carrie is just like K-kkk-kkk-Katie from the movie The Way We Were starring Barbara Streisand and Robert Redford.

After the episode ended, and I realized how much I missed my SATC fixes, Andrew walked in the door from a long days work. I jumped in his arms and we talked about our day and I secretly decided to promise myself more single-not really single girl dates in the future.

Reuniting with the Infamous Gibb Sisters

It just so happens that it was Jane's birthday weekend and to celebrate, Jenny decided they should head to Austin to see a show. Little did Jane know that Jenny clued us in on the birthday plans and as Jane and Jenny were exiting the venue, there Andrew and I were to greet the girls! It had been one whole year since we last saw each other in Korea, and when our eyes met (and Jane got over the shock) it was like we never left each other. We picked right back up where we left off. But this time, it was in AMERICA.



friends together again at last



We headed down 6th Street in Austin's entertainment district to celebrate our reunion and found ourselves walking into the Blind Pig. It's a good thing we got there early because it wasn't long before the enormous venue was packed to the max with not only a waiting line to get in the front door, but another waiting line just to get to the upper deck. Nonetheless, the music was good, the drinks were okay, and the time spent with the Gibb sisters was priceless.



the cutest couple you ever did see



Once we arrived back home (and after Jenny backed into a parked Escalade), we enjoyed more catch up time and reminiscing about the way life used to be. We scarfed down some tator tots (that I so carefully prepared) and took a shot of soju for old time sake. Immediately after, Andrew threw up in the sink. Looks like soju and Andrew will never get along. It's okay buddy. You can't win um' all!

Austin Music Scene

The Austin music scene is unlike anything I've ever experienced. There are always so many shows playing around town that it's hard to choose which show to attend. These days I find myself frequenting the free shows the most. However on Friday night, I couldn't turn down an invitation to the Bright Light Social Hour CD Release Show at Antone's on 5th Street. They are a local Austin band and have taken the city by storm. Bright Light Social Hour has blown up so fast and have such a committed following of fans that they have finally raised enough money to support their recording project. With the release of their new CD, they put on one of the best shows I've ever been too and managed to sell out the entire venue.

As a proud owner of BLSH's new album, its not just their music that makes them so appealing. The entire crowd seems to sing-a-long with every song and dance the night away. Their bluesy, funk, old soul type of sound mixed with modern day lyrics are so catchy and musically stimulating that you can't help but dance along and be hypnotized by their iconic guitar, keyboard, and sweet vocal sounds. Check out the link of my favorite band below. I just know big things are going to happen for them!

http://soundcloud.com/thebrightlightsocialhour/detroit

Dear Birthday Fairy and Santa Clause,

Being unemployed for several months has left me scraping by with little extra. I would think it's very, very swell if I woke up on either holiday with a guitar case so my guitar doesn't get beat up anymore, a sweet and stylin' guitar strap so it's easier to play, and hip cowgirl boots.

I can't sing and play guitar in Texas without boots!!! Let's get real...

I love you so much!

Your most favorite supporter,

Cassandra Grabowski

AMOA, the worst art museum I've ever visited

As my short days at work are coming to an end (thank goodness I'll be moving to full time hours soon), Andrew and I have been trying to make the most of our afternoons together. Today, we went to the Austin Art Museum. Let's just say, it will be the last time. This museum is undoubtedly the smallest museum I have ever stepped into and clearly I didn't do my research because little did I know they only show one exhibit at a time. This months exhibit happens to be based on the work by Romare Bearden, a very talented artist no doubt. Unfortunately, it's just not my taste. I appreciate his printmaking skills as I used to study this art form in high school. I also loved that all of his artwork in the museum were inspired by African Americans or Jazz music. However Andrew and I both found ourselves done with the entire museum in a matter of 15 minutes. (Please accept my sincerest apologies Mr. Bearden.)

With a downtown parking meter paid for the next two hours, we decided not to let our failed art experience slow us down. Instead we ventured onward, and did some urban exploring. We popped into a few art shops with locally made crafts and weaved in and out of downtown streets, passing famous local landmarks such as the Driskill Hotel and the Paramount Theatre.

The Driskill Hotel

The Paramount Theatre

We also walked around in the entertainment district on Sixth Street where you can find numerous music venues, restaurants, and bars. We even found a great tourist shop where we picked up a number of different brochures of fun things to do in and around town!

6th Street Store Fronts

I love dates with my boyfriend!

The Cupcake Craze

What's the deal with cupcakes these days? It seems that everywhere you turn, there's a new cupcake bake shoppe opening or a cupcake based television show covering your LCD screen. Big ones, mini ones, personalized, and glamorized. Just think of what Dr. Seuss could have done with cupcakes if he were still alive!

But aside from cupcakes being everywhere, how on earth did they ever become so famous?
 
When you think about it, who can resist a cupcake? I for one don't even like cake. Birthday after birthday as a child, I never once wanted a moist and fluffy cake...and certainly not a cupcake at that. I was a pie gal and the only cakes I would go near were the infamous ice cream cakes and cherry cheesecake (my personal all-time favorite). These days, birthdays are built around what kind of cupcake tower or trees will be displayed. There are cupcake towers, trees, and cakes. But I have to admit, they are pretty. Who knew cupcake making would become such an art form!?

Well, now that I'm here in Austin, there is a food truck that sells the most famous cupcakes around. I've lived here three months and I've finally become curious enough to visit this local landmark! To celebrate my first full week of work, Andrew drove me down to "Hey Cupcake" where he bought me the sweet berry special. It was strawberry cake and strawberry icing. Umm...I might be hooked.

Why didn't I jump on the cupcake train and start a business?

My first event with High Beam Events

Yesterday I assisted in managing my first event at High Beam Events. It was the Grand Opening of an Amplify branch in downtown Austin. The event was in a parking lot, a few bands performed, live video footage was projected on the side of a building, and the attendee turn out was great!

I could get used to events like this!

Mr. Coffee

I came home from a 12 hour day of work to this, the most beautiful machine I have ever seen.

It even has a self cleaner. Andrew is the best.

Not so far from home after all...

The theme of this past labor day weekend can be credited to my new friend Molly and her boyfriend Pat Wheeler. See, he gave her this t-shirt that said, "Shootin' Deers and Drinking Beers." I've never felt so close to home. 

I'm from a real small town. And well, a part of me wants to believe that one has many options to express themselves and show the world their true personality. Whether you choose to die your hair blue or wear pants 3 sizes too big, you know who you are and can be who you want to be. It just seems that everyone who surrounded me growing up only knew how to wear camouflage, old blue jeans, and shirts with witty comments such as the one stated above.

Now I'm not saying there is anything wrong with supporting John Deere or Carharts. I'm simply trying to point out that western New York and Texas aren't so different.

With that being said, Andrew and I spent the holiday at the Wheeler Ranch surrounded by 3,000 acres of beautiful Texas wilderness. Roaming around the property in their assortment of gators and hummers reminded me of how we used to do the same as kids on four-wheelers and snow mobiles. We also swam in the lake, tried out stand up paddle boards, and kayaks. We spent a lot of time in their natural spring, with water so clean and pure you could drink it by the handful. We ate barbecue drank beers in their giant barn. And most importantly, we shot us some guns! Now I'm not talking about any sissy guns. I'm talking about M-16s and hand guns galore, with enough ammo and targets to supply a training camp.

You could say I would have made my daddy proud out there. But I was more proud of my New York country girl roots, even if I am in Texas.

From Where They Run Live at the Parish, Austin TX

So I've picked up a new hobby...writing band/concert reviews. Check out my first one below!

From Where They Run
Parish, Austin, TX
Review by Cassandra Grabowski

The new five piece band to hit the Austin music scene is quickly becoming a huge sensation. After their appearance on Wednesday, August 18th at The Parish on 6th street, the non-stop buzzing of their new eclectic indie/folk sound is keeping Austinites interested and wanting more. So who is creating all of this excitement in what is known as the music capital of the world? Well the name to remember is From Where They Run and they are like one big family with a whole lot of passion for music.

From their collection of impressive instruments (including a vintage Gretsch drum kit played by Pat Wheeler and two Collings guitars played by Nolan Wheeler and Danny Matthews) the true beauty lies in their rhythmic melodies and down-to-earth lyrics. From the moment From Where They Run struck their first chord, the audience was immediately engaged and dancing up a storm. The right touch of banjo and slide guitar were performed by A.J. Molyneaux and Tyler Wheeler was "slappin' the bass", giving the band a very well-rounded sound. My favorite song of the evening was "Long Hard Road". I couldn't help but be hypnotized by the sound and dance along with the crowd. As the show wrapped up, an encore was demanded by the enthused audience. After a few pausing glances swiped between the band members, the theme to The Jungle Book, "I Wanna Be Like You" was covered by From Where They Run. It literally brought the crowd into a roar and much fun was had.

Their wide range of instruments and true-to-Texas lyrics make every musical note something you can relate to and want to hear time and time again. This is the kind of music I want to turn up loud in my car with the windows down, and jam to on a long road trip with friends. If you are looking for something new to add to your repertoire, From Where They Run will not let you down. Whether you are looking for inspiration or seeking a new sound, you can't go wrong this band.

Hear them. See them headlining at their next show on September 11th at The Parish. Love them. And most importantly, support From Where They Run, a true Austin band.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmeqP9LCbtc
Take a listen by clicking on this link!

"Summer Lovin'...

...had me a blast!"

I can't help but scream this little hit number from the movie Grease at the top of my lungs (and secretly do all the moves ...because I happen to know them). Not only did I have a ton of fun this past summer but as the song says, "...it happened so fast". It's amazing to me how much time can pass when you're doing things you love with the people you love. I spent the early part of my summer driving cross country from Arizona to Texas to move in with Andrew (a first for the both of us). Once settled, I drove all over central Texas with the boyfriend's family learning about Texas history and exploring little tourist towns called Fredricksburg and Luckenbach as well as landmarks such as the capital building of Texas and the infamous Alamo. I also had the opportunity to fly into my old stomping grounds in New York to visit with family I hadn't seen in a decade. And I seem to finally be ending my summer by landing the "dream job" that coincidentally took me all summer to find.

But with all the fun I had in the sun, this was surely one of the most stressful summers I have ever experienced. I left a great job and great friends back in Arizona. I spent all summer searching for work and flooding the Austin market with my resume only to come up empty handed. I interviewed more times than my fingers can count. I was financially strapped for months. I was living with a boy (aka significant other) for the first time in my life. I had no friends, except for those of my boyfriends. And most importantly, I missed not one, but two of my best friends' weddings back in New York. As hard as this summer was, THANK the big G-O-D for Andrew and the support I received from my family and friends. Every time I was getting down, someone was always there to remind me, "things will happen when the time is right and to just have fun in the mean time." If it weren't for all of them, I might have lost it in the sea of rejection and anxiety I was facing.

But on the bright side, I finally begin my new job tomorrow at High Beam Events. For the first time in my career, I get to create and plan my own events and all for the official parties that surround the nine day South by Southwest Festival that begins in mid March. I'm really looking forward to what's to come and in the mean time, I am truly enjoying my new Austin town.

In some ways I do feel like Sandy from Grease. In the end, she got everything she wanted.

New Adventure = New Inspiration

First of all, I have to thank everyone for all of the great and supportive feedback I received for creating this blog. I can't believe how addicted I became to writing and sharing my experiences with all of you, especially all the way from South Korea. But then it occurred to me, why did I ever stop?

To be completely honest...there were many times this summer that I sat at my computer staring at a blank screen. Typing. Then erasing. Then typing. Then shutting down.

Although I had a lot of incredible adventures this summer, I couldn't bring myself to share them because ultimately, I wasn't happy with where my life was. I came to Austin with a lot of hopes and dreams, but I wasn't fully committed to positively dealing with the hardships that came with living in a new and unfamiliar place. Those of you who really, truly know me, know that I happen to love working and that my life seems to always revolve around it in same way or another. I love being in an industry surrounded by professionals who support each other and are constantly faced with adrenaline pumping challenges that end in immediate personal satisfaction. Moving to Austin without a job was something that I was comfortable doing. I was warned and strongly advised to wait until I had something lined up, but I also knew I wouldn't be doing myself or anyone any favors for staying in Arizona. Naively I thought it would be hard but I would manage to find something with in a month or shortly after. I was prepared to work part-time jobs that I was over qualified for in the interim. But I was not prepared to be rejected by all of those jobs I was over qualified for.

After countless interviews and conversations with anyone who would speak with me and then getting no where, I found myself falling into a slump. I was drowning in rejection and getting no where fast. I didn't want to write because I had nothing to say. Nothing to share. I was embarrassed. There, I said it. I barely picked up the phone all summer because I was embarrassed that I couldn't get a job at the local grocery store or the coffee shop down the street. I was loathing. And I had no one to blame but myself.

With each day that passed, the light at the end of the tunnel was becoming more dim and I was fighting for air. Then someone finally cut me a break. For now, it's a seasonal job. But it's one of those jobs that seem to come once in a lifetime. Suddenly, I feel like I'm getting a piece of myself back. And maybe its just really a piece of mind. I am now some body's employee. And rather than drowning, I'm afloat once again...and I feel alive.

With this new feeling of self worth, I have been stumbling around the idea of blogging again. I began thinking about what my blog was all about and why I believed I had something to share in the first place. Then all of these thoughts manifested into the name behind my blog. The name of my blog is called, "The Existential Traveler" and although I am no philosopher, to me existentialism means that every experience you have in life leads to the experiences you will have in the future. Without taking risks or making difficult decisions, I wouldn't have made it to where I am today. In fact, I wouldn't be the person I have become.

It is with this reminder that I have decided to re-inspire myself and update the look of my blog. I have changed the title on the main page to reflect where my travels have taken me now...the Austin City. I finally feel as though I have the courage to share my experiences once again. I am on a new adventure after all.

But I will leave you with this. In my very first blog I ended with the words below:

All I can do now is leave with this, with words I hope I never ever forget:

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by what you did do...Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain


Words every existential traveler should live by...
 
Sometimes you just need a reminder...