The Texas State Fair

Recently I went home to Dallas for a short weekend jaunt. It is not that often that I find myself missing Texas, but this time of year something always has me yearning for a Flethcher's Corny Dog and spin on the Texas Star. State Fair time is the best time of year in Dallas. As a kid, we always got to take a school holiday for it. As I have grown up, I have learned that not all fairs are like the Texas State Fair. In fact most other State fairs that I have been to do not even exist in the same realm of reality in which the Texas State Fair lives. Naturally, everything is bigger in Texas. It is more like a full blown amusement park than a State Fair. It goes on for three glorious weeks in October, so you if you have never been to the Texas State Fair, I highly recommend you add it to your bucket list. Here is a small taste of what you can expect:

Are you planning your trip yet?

Nascar.

Last weekend,I felt more American than any other time in my life. And that folks, is because I have now witnessed the great sport they call Nascar! Enjoy!

Colorado.

Although I grew up in Texas, went to school in Maine, and now live in Virginia, there is something about Colorado that will always feel like home. I do not know if it is the serenity I gain from the mountains, the animals all around or the people that make it such a special place for me. It is probably a combination of all of these things in addition to the fond childhood memories I have vacationing there. I have lived in various parts of the state for the past seven years and never thought I would leave. As I have mentioned before here and here, I have been having a blast on this new adventure but I would be lying through my teeth if I said I did not miss my western paradise.

It has been almost nine months and finally I am returning this weekend. I can not wait to visit all of my friends and my family!! My sister and brother are still there. Sometimes I feel as though they are a limb that was amputated when I moved, they are both so special to me as are so many other friends in Colorado.

I am beyond excited for a long weekend filled with laughter, happiness, adventure, and whiskey. There will probably be whiskey. 

What are you up to this weekend?

Instalately.

Here is a glimpse of what I have been up to recently. Trips to AL for Mardi Gras and my grandfather's funeral, great weather, terrible weather, pics of Cash, a high river, and WSMFP!!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram at @thezaleinvail

Home.

We have officially been east coasters for 6 months now. Although I am no stranger to change or spontaneous decisions, this was a big one for me. Moving to Richmond, after only visiting for two short trips might seem like a crazy idea but I figured "hey, why not?" I'm not sure I am quite prepared to say it has been the BEST decision of my life but I do think it was a pretty good one. 

I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss the mountains or my friends and family back in Colorado but exploring this new area has been a grand adventure. Tyler & I have loved the different environment here and have been able to experience the beautiful seasons. (excited for spring!) We are so close to the mountains  hills to the west of us, we have even got a decent amount of ski days in and we are equally close to the beach on the other side. 

I have loved being closer to his sisters and family, being a part of his niece's growth is so special and I cant wait to welcome the new little one in March!

After 6 short months, I am really feeling settled here. This adventure has drawn us closer as a couple and a family but at the end of the day, all that really matters is that we are together!

beaches.

tales from a recent trip to OBX:

 

Campout for the Cause.

This past weekend was a good one. There is an amazing place not too far from where I live called State Bridge. It is a little slice of heaven on earth! State Bridge is a small outdoor amphitheater nestled in the woods alongside the Colorado River! It is always filled with good music and good people!! This weekend was their annual Campout for The Cause. Its a mini festival they hold each year! I have been to almost every one!! This year, like the last few, a bunch of my friends and I filled our cars and headed to the campsite on Thursday afternoon! The weekend was glorious and here are a few of my favorite captured moments!!

Enjoy! 

We all came home sunburned, hungover, and happy!! Can't wait till next year y'all!!