This is Texas?!!

It was exciting to find out that Lake Travis is only 30 minutes away, but I was not expecting what I saw. Since Adrian's dad was visiting, we decided to take the drive and check out the lake and its surroundings. This part of Texas is hill country (before I moved to Texas I had assumed all of it was flat desert). The hills are not as grand as the Rocky Mountains but the green makes up for it, especially since its winter and the color is still vibrant. Though it was a rainy, cloudy day, we still had a great view of the lake and the hills.

And in addition to the wonderful, natural views, there are these amazing houses that belong in the class of European villas. Tiled roofs, stone walls, vibrant yellows — I was expecting small beach houses but these are mansions with exceptional views.

Looking out on the lake, some people were braving the cold water to go boating and water skiing; I'll wait till the temperature is warmer to enter the water. But no matter what, we'll be back to soak in the views and get inspired by our surroundings. I know this is just the beginning of what Texas has to offer.  

As the clouds clear, a view of the winding waterway.

The mansion on the left is owned by a Mexican man who started a grocery chain. This picture does not do the home justice.

More "homes" on the hills.

Starting to feel like home

So I have now been in Austin for over a month. Crazy!! It feels longer and shorter at the same time. Overall, very nice. I do feel like this is my new home, especially now that I have an apartment. I'm way excited to not be living in a hotel anymore. And the new place is about twice the size as my one in Salt Lake. Of course, since I don't have a lot of stuff, it's just empty space; But it's my empty space and I like it. I'll take some photos and post them.

As for what I've been doing. I'm am just about done writing my letter of intent (read about that dilemma) and applying to grad school. I've been exploring the city, which is quite awesome. There is so much good food. I want to call out some of them specifically later. There is such a variety. The people are also really nice. I've made some good connections with designer types.

Also, I love that the coldest its gotten during the day is 50, and 30 at night. Sorry to all my Utah friends who have had to fight the snow. I'm pretty grateful I got out just in time :)

A place to call home (for a couple months)

Good news!! We will have a place to stay in Austin for November and December. It's not in the price range we wanted for a room, but at least I know it will be nice. We will be renting a room from a lady named Cyndi (who is a friend of a daughter of an artist who Adrian's dad knows). One nice thing is she has an Italian Greyhound, which is the breed of dog that I want.

It will be nice to be around pets and living in a house. I'm a little apprehensive about living with someone I don't know (I never really had that feeling with college roommates; I must be getting old). I think it's just the whole stress of a new situation. At least this one decision is made and I can focus on other things.