...So I lied... I didn't take any pictures from the bike ride. In addition to the ride, mom & I took a trip over to the East End Urban Market- pretty cool Mexican imports. Getting a group together to go back in a couple of weeks when they have more stuff. After the market, we drove out to the Woodlands to visit Hubbel & Hudson (http://www.hubbellandhudson.com/)- GREAT grocery store! I HIGHLY recommend it- mix of Dean & Deluca and Central Market. Going back in a couple of weeks! In addition, I have been busy house hunting- found a home, but someone put a contract on it :( Hopefully that will fall through, and I can get the house. Keep your fingers crossed. I'll try to get some pics soon- DEFINITELY this weekend at my family dinner & my 40 mile bike ride.

This weekend I will be participating in my first OFFICIAL MS150 training ride (unlike the first beginners ride- this one will be much longer & the cold front will probably bring in heavy winds). Although I'm a bit nervous, I'm looking forward to the challege and the practice of riding in a big group. I'll be sure to include photos for you to see!

DEXTY

Just thought I'd share a lazy, but cute picture of Dexty lounging on the couch... What a life! Aren't you jealous???

CHICAGO

Linds & Me before I left- FUN weekend

Jenny, Jess, Linds

Lisa, Jenny, & Me

Girls Dinner @ Webster's Wine Bar- Lisa, Jenny, Me, Linds, Jess

Grand Central- Jenny, Me, Lindsay

Belly Dancer, singer, & Jessica (Lindsay's coworker)

Sober & uncomfortable @ Arabia

My weekend trip to Chicago was a blast! I stayed at Lindsay & Willie's beautiful apartment, and we spent the weekend eating, drinking, and shopping (what could be better!?!?!). Friday, Lindsay and I went to a hookah/bellydancing bar called Arabia for one a co-worker's Birthday party. It was interesting to say the least. Then we met up with some friends at Grand Central (bar) then the infamous The Store. And OF COURSE we ended the evening with a lovely chow down of a whole box of pizza rolls AND a whole pizza. "K"lassy evening. Saturday evening was pretty much a repeat. HOWEVER, Saturday during the day Brandon met us @ Fox & Obel (one of my favorite Chicago spots) for lunch & was sweet enough to drive us around Wicker Park & shop with us.

DEXTER & HIS NEW BOWS!!!

As promised... Here are a few pictures of Dexy & a few of his new bows (he clearly doesn't know that he's a boy)!

TRAINING!

My first training ride was interesting- first half was great with a fantastic tail wind (average speed- 17mph), second half was not so great with a terrible head wind (average speed- 9mph). I completely forgot my camera. After the ride & a very hot bath, I went to Beaumont to visit Pawpaw! I taught him how to do laundry (first time ever!) since Rose had open heart surgery. We had a great weekend. Saturday afternoon, I bought some ribbons for Dexter. He looks absolutely adorable, so I will post pictures of him with his different looks- precious. Sunday we over to L'Auberge. Unfortunately we didn't have a big win, but as Pawpaw says, "Everyday is not a holiday!" Glad to be back in Houston for the week!

I have my first MS150 training ride this weekend! Looking forward to learning how to ride in pack. Translation- how to ride close together with people without falling & taking 50 people out with me. I'll post some pics on Monday... Keep your fingers crossed that I don't fall & cause a massive pile up!

Learning...

First time blogging... We'll see how I keep this up! The above picture is my lil 7 year old baby, Dexter. I'm going to use this blog to TRY to keep everyone updated with what is going on in my (and Dexter's) life.

I found this blog background at http://www.simplychicblogs.blogspot.com/, and I'm starting to experiment with 'blog extras'. Let me know if you have any suggestions!