Gibsooon

 

gibsooon's blog

Houston, Business, Health, Travel, Yoga, Events

 

 

 

 

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Decode Digital wins 10 Crystal Awards at AMA
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This post is a shout out to the creative team at Decode Digital, for producing work that has resulted in 10 Crystal Awards, recognized by American Marketing Association (AMA). The Crystals are the ONLY marketing awards show in Houston that gives awards based on DATA, which is huge at Decode. This work wasn't only pretty, it was effective at reaching our clients goals. 

Under this past year of my Creative Direction, Decode was able to win 10 Crystal Awards for: 

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  • Email Communications: Single - Decode's Holiday Card

  • SEM - CHI St. Luke's Health Emergency Services

  • Shoestring Marketing ($7,500 or less) - CHI St. Luke's Health Veteran's Choice Campaign

  • Event Promotion: 2 or More Events - January Career Events at CHI St. Luke's Health

  • Advertising: Online Video - Magical Winter Lights Online Video

  • Advertising: Paid Display - Jerry Built Rich Media Display

  • Advertising: Paid Social Media - Magical Winter Lights - Paid Social Media Campaign

  • Advertising: TV Campaign (Two or more) - Baylor St. Luke's Medical Group - We Know Better Campaign

  • Elements of Advertising: Copywriting - Jerry Built Copywriting

  • Website: TEAM Industrial Services, Griffin Creative, InkSpot Communications & Decode Digital TEAM Industrial Services - Website

It's been a joy getting to work with such a young and creative bunch at Decode. I love seeing what happens when you bring brilliant minds together for collaboration. Cheers to the awards, Decode!

Houston Weekend Guide: May 11-13
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Why this Guide? 

Through Instagram, I often get messages asking how I find out about cool events after the event has happened. The city has many great resources, but somehow, time after time, cool events go unheard or overlooked. There's way too much going on in this city to go to the same bar, restaurant, or stay inside and watch TV (even if it's sports). Make the most of your time living in the 4th biggest city in the United States.

View the full list.

Some of this weekends highlights include: 

Saturday Afternoon Texas Festival Downtown @ City Hall: the event includes over 15 live bands, lots of food including: Burgers, BBQ, Tex Mex, Tx Crawfish (not even sure..), over 10 local breweries and Texas liquors (vodka). The event has a mechanical bull, arcade games, corn hole, & is fun for the whole family. Tickets are only $10! Did you even hear about this thing??

BuffBrew is having their annual Spring Carnival. It tends to be (very) weird, but LOTS of fun. There's BBQ, live music, "naught balloon twisters", and "carny goodness". It's Saturday night. You'll want to Uber there.

Yoga and Fitness: If you love yoga, or just want to get started, there are plenty of opportunities this weekend. BEYOGA is opening in the Heights Saturday, @FitnessInTheLoop has free & donation based classes Saturday & Sunday. And you can check me, Gibson, out at Black Swan this weekend because I'm subbing a few classes (Saturday: 1:30pm @BSY White Oak, 4:30pm @BSY Kirby, & Sunday 7pm @BSY White Oak). If you haven't been to Black Swan Yoga and want to take my class, the first one will be on me. Just show up with a water bottle. 

Mother's Day! I couldn't forget about this special day (Hey mom, if you're reading this I love you!). Give your mom a call, and better yet, share this new music video by The Suffers with her! (Upworthy article).

View the full weekend calendar list.

 
 

Friday, May 11

8pm
Don Quixote
by Houston Ballet @ Miller Outdoor Theater. More info

8pm
Hamilton
at The Hobby Center. More info.

8pm
Final Weekend to see Small Ball
at The MATCH. More info.

8pm
Picasso at the Lapin Agile
@ Alley Theater. More info

 

Saturday, May 12

8-11am
Urban Harvest Farmers Market
on Eastside at Richmond. 

All Day
#CisternInColor is open at Buffalo Bayou!

10am
Donation Yoga
with Nicole Peralta / Fitness In The Loop @ Belle Station

10am-12pm
Be Yoga
Grand Opening! More Info.

11am-5pm
The Market at Sawyer Yards
/ Second Saturdays. More info.

12pm-11pm
"Texas Fest"
 with many bands and beer @ City Hall. More info.

2pm
Hamilton
at The Hobby Center. More info.

2:30pm
Picasso at the Lapin Agile
@ Alley Theater. More info

6-9pm
Buffalo Bayou Spring Carnival
with "carnival games, a naughty balloon twister, and a dunk tank". More Info

7:30pm
An Evening with Ira Glass from This American Life @ Jones Hall. More Info

8pm
Final Weekend to see Small Ball
at The MATCH. More info.

8pm
Hamilton
at The Hobby Center. More info.

8pm
Picasso at the Lapin Agile
@ Alley Theater. More info

8pm
Don Quixote
by Houston Ballet @ Miller Outdoor Theater. More info

 

Sunday, May 13

10am
Donation Based Yoga
with Val @ HTX Sports Creek

11am
Free Yoga
at Spring Street Beer & Wine Garden by Fitness In the Loop

2pm
Hamilton
at The Hobby Center. More info.

2:30pm
Final Time to see Small Ball
at The MATCH. More info.

5-9pm
Canned Acoustica
with Clay Melton Band, Andrew James, Blaze X Black, Second Lovers and Miers. More info

7pm
Dr. Dog
and Son Little at White Oak Music Hall

7:30pm
Hamilton
at The Hobby Center. More info.

7:30pm
Picasso at the Lapin Agile
@ Alley Theater. More info

8pm
Don Quixote
by Houston Ballet @ Miller Outdoor Theater. More info

 

 

 

Looking forward to these events next week

Rockets VS Warriors @ home - Monday and Wednesday

Tuesday, May 15
SGWomen Celebrating Texas Female Entrepreneurs
. More Info

Tuesday, May 15
Grown Up Storytime
. More info.

Thursday May 17 — Sunday June 3
The Strangerer : A story of George W. Bush, Jim Jehrer, and John Kerry. More info

Thursday, May 17 - June 9
"Wanda, Daisy and the Great Rapture" @ Obsidian Theater. Half off tickets

Friday, May 18
Dave Matthews Band
at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Friday, May 18
Houston Astros
vs. Cleveland Indians at Minute Maid Park

Friday, May 18
Neon Party Dance Party
@ Art League Houston. More Info.

Friday, May 18
Bike to Work Day. More Info

May 19
Color HTX
More Info

Saturday - Sunday, May 19 - May 20
Plus Fest : Houston Festival that merges Poetry, The Arts, and Music together. 1-10pm.  More Info.

May 19-20
The Great Texas BBQ Festival
in Downtown with Robert Earl Keen, Dawes, and more. More info

May 20
Love Street Music Fest
— Karbach Brewing Company with Bleachers, Cold War Kids, Everclear, The Tontons and more. More Info.

 

Cinco De Derby Weekend: May 5-6 Events & Happenin's
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Hello Houston! There's so much going on this weekend! I hope you go out, have fun, and keep exploring new things in Houston. 

 

Saturday, May 5

8:30-11am
Urban Harvest Farmers Market

8:30am-4:30pm
Houston Dragon Boat Festival along Buffalo Bayou. 
More info

9am
First Saturdays
 Art Market in The Heights

10am-2pm
Piñatafest
2018 in EaDo "Piñatafest celebrates the ancient cultural tradition of piñata-making" More Info

12pm
Cinco de Mayo Houston
at Navigation Esplanade. More info.

12pm
Cinco De Derby
@ Wicklow Heights. Live music, tacos, realllly good Julep & Margaritas. More info.

12pm
The Texas Taco, Tequila and Margarita Festival
at Preservation Park in SPRING, TX with Gio Chamba and lots of tacos. More info

2-6pm
Julep & Taco Bar
@ Julep on Washington. More Info

5-8pm
Downtown Houston presents Los Skarnales
@ Market Square. More info

5-8pm
Climb de Mayo
@ Momentum Indoor Climbing. Free Margaritas, Chips, Queso, Shoes, and Discounts on everything. More info.  

5-10pm
Market Noir by Post Flea @ Post HTX
- Free night market featuring shopping, art, food, and lots of interesting sights. Stay for the after party, if you can stay up that late. More info.

7:30pm
Houston Dynamo
vs. Los Angeles Galaxy at BBVA Compass Stadium

8pm
Small Ball at The MATCH - only 5 shows left!! More Info.

8pm
Hamilton
at The Hobby Center. More Info.

9pm-5am
Who Made Who Live at Cirque Noir
@ Post HTX. This event cannot be described, but must be experienced. It's an all night art show made of visual and experiential art. More info.

 

Sunday, May 6

All day: Lemonade Day! Encourage kids to be entrepreneurs by stopping and getting lemonade anywhere you see them Sunday!

8:30am Santo de Mayo 5K at Saint Arnold Brewery. - Drink Beer & Run More info. 

10am - Free Yoga at Raven Tower - Black Swan Yoga with Haley Bowen, Saumil and John Tran. 10am

10am - Free Yoga at HTX Sports Creek - @FitnessInTheLoop with Jordan & Austin / @rasta.brogis 

11am - Free Yoga at Spring Street Beer & Wine Garden

2pm
Small Ball at The MATCH - only 4 shows left!! More Info.

2pm
Hamilton
at The Hobby Center. More Info.

6pm
Rockets
play @ Utah

6:30pm - Musical Madness - Play / music show at MATCH in Midtown. 6:30pm More info

7:30pm
Hamilton
at The Hobby Center. More Info.

 

Houston Guide: May 2018
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Ongoing this Month:

Hamilton is playing at The Hobby Center. Tickets start around $200.

The Rockets are in the 2nd Round of the Playoffs! Games: April 29, May 2*, May 4, May 6, May 8*, May 10, May 14*. *Home Games.  Buy Tickets

Small Ball "A Basketball Musical" by Catastrophic Theater @ MATCH. Now - May 13. Learn More.

West Side Story by Houston Grand Opera @ George R Brown. Now - May 6 More info.

The Great American Trailer Park Musical @ Stages Theatre. Now - July. More Info.

Picasso at the Lapin Agile @ Alley Theater. May 11-June 3. More info

Shakespeare in Vegas by 4th Wall Theatre Company. May 18-June 9. More info

 

Week 1: April 29 — May 5

Tuesday, May 1
Yoga on the Pitch
@ BBVA Soccer Stadium  More Info

Wednesday, May 2
Vance Joy
in Concert at Revention Music Center. Tickets.

Wednesday, May 02
Oh Wonder
@ White Oak Music Hall

Thursday, May 3
University of Houston Graphic Design Senior Exhibition : Featuring work from twenty-three designers. Grand Opening is Thursday 4:30-7pm, and the show goes on until Saturday. More info.

Thursday, May 3
Urban Green’s Urban Derby
at Hermann Park. More info.

Thursday, May 3
Mid Main
First Thursday Fundraiser for Bike Houston. More Info 

Saturday, May 5, 8:30am
Houston Dragon Boat Festival. 
More info

Saturday, May 5
Houston Dynamo
vs. Los Angeles Galaxy at BBVA Compass Stadium

Saturday, May 5
First Saturdays
in The Heights

Saturday, May 5 - May 6
Houston's Women's Expo @ George R. Brown. More Info

 

Cinco de Mayo: 

Celebrate at The Houstonian. 3 Margaritas for $10. You can also join The Houstonian's pool & fitness facilities with a summer pass. More info

Saturday, May 5
Piñatafest 2018 in EaDo More Info

Saturday, May 5, 5-8pm
Downtown Houston presents Los Skarnales
@ Market Square. More info

Saturday, May 5
Cinco de Mayo Houston
at Navigation Esplanade. More info.

The Texas Taco, Tequila and Margarita Festival at Preservation Park in SPRING, TX with Gio Chamba and lots of tacos. More info

 

Week 2: May 6 — 12

Sunday, May 6
Musical Madness More info

Sunday, May 6
Santo de Mayo 5K
at Saint Arnold Brewery. More info. 

Wednesday, May 9
Houston Dash
vs. Portland Thorns FC at BBVA Compass Stadium. More info

Wednesday, May 9
HYPE:
Five Steps to Startup Success. More Info

Thursday, May 10
Eado Comedy Show. Tickets

Thursday, May 10
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
@ Discovery Green  More info

May 11-13
Don Quixote
by Houston Ballet @ Miller Outdoor Theater. More info

Saturday, May 12
The Market at Sawyer Yards
/ Second Saturdays. More info.

Saturday May 12
"Texas Fest" with many bands and beer @ City Hall. More info.

Saturday, May 12
Buffalo Bayou Spring Carnival with "carnival games, a naughty balloon twister, and a dunk tank". More Info

Saturday, May 12, 7:30pm
An Evening with Ira Glass from This American Life @ Jones Hall. More Info

Sunday, May 13
Dr. Dog
and Son Little at White Oak Music Hall

Week 3: May 13 — 19

Sunday, May 13, 5pm
Canned Acoustica
with Clay Melton Band, Andrew James, Blaze X Black, Second Lovers and Miers. More info

Tuesday, May 15
SGWomen Celebrating Texas Female Entrepreneurs
. More Info

Tuesday, May 15
Grown Up Storytime
. More info.

Thursday, May 17
Urban Reads:
Michael Emerson presented by Rice University's Kinder Institute for Urban Research. More Info

Thursday May 17 — Sunday June 3
The Strangerer : A story of George W. Bush, Jim Jehrer, and John Kerry. More info

Thursday, May 17 - June 9
"Wanda, Daisy and the Great Rapture" @ Obsidian Theater. Half off tickets

Thursday, May 17
Eado Comedy Show. Tickets

Friday, May 18
Dave Matthews Band
at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

Friday, May 18
Houston Astros
vs. Cleveland Indians at Minute Maid Park

Friday, May 18
Neon Party Dance Party
@ Art League Houston. More Info.

Friday, May 18
Bike to Work Day. More Info

May 19
Color HTX
More Info

May 19
Jumanji
@ Discovery Green. More info

Saturday - Sunday, May 19 - May 20
Plus Fest : Houston Festival that merges Poetry, The Arts, and Music together. 1-10pm.  More Info.

May 19-20
The Great Texas BBQ Festival
in Downtown with Robert Earl Keen, Dawes, and more. More info

May 20
Love Street Music Fest
— Karbach Brewing Company with Bleachers, Cold War Kids, Everclear, The Tontons and more. More Info.

May 20
Beatles vs. Stones:
A Musical Showdown at The Hobby Center. More info

May 20
Sunday Streets
in Montrose

Week 4: May 20 — 26

Wednesday, May 23
Houston Dash
vs. Seattle Reign FC at BBVA Compass Stadium. 

Wednesday May 23 and Friday May 25
Justin Timberlake at Toyota Center

Thursday, May 24
Eado Comedy Show. Tickets

Friday, May 25 - Saturday, June 9
"The Graduate" at The MATCH. More info

Friday, May 25
Houston Dynamo
vs. New York City FC at BBVA Compass Stadium

May 25-26
Ben Jackson Live!
Magic, Music, & Mayhem at La Colombe d'Or Hotel. More info.

Saturday, May 26
Caesar : Moments of Wonder @ The Match : "That is some crazy shit" - 50 Cent More info.

Week 5: May 27 — June 2

Wednesday, May 30
Matisyahu & Steven Marley
@ White Oak Music Hall Lawn

Thursday, May 31
Houston Astros
vs. Boston Red Sox at Minute Maid Park

 

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Did I miss something? 

People read these things! Keep us updated in the comments. 

31st Annual Art Car Parade

The 31st Annual Art Car Parade took place this weekend. The morning started cool and rainy, which seemed to have prevented some normal spectators from coming out to the parade. However, the day shaped up to be one of the most beautiful afternoons ever in Houston. 

The crowd at the Art Car parade is much different than any other parade or mass city event. Everybody is in such great spirits, filled with huge smiles, laughter, and dancing. 

The participants in the parade interact with the crowd, and the crowd shows love back. Mark down the next event: April 19, 2019!

“Cloud Column" by Anish Kapoor
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The Museum of Fine Arts Houston so kindly invited me to a sneak peak of Anish Kapoor's creation, "Cloud Column". This structure is 32 feet tall, and weighs over 21,000 pounds. This art piece is a precursor to Chicago's "Cloud Gate", even though it hasn't been revealed until now. 

This new art is being installed at the new Museum of Fine Arts campus, set to open next month. Below is a rendering from MFAH, as well as more photos snapped during my sneak peak of this new exhibit. #MFAHAfterHours

@MFAHouston

@MFAHouston

April Events in Houston
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Time has been flying by this year, and I'm a little late to write about cool things happening this month. I hope you had a nice Easter / Pass Over / Pretty Weekend, and are planning on going to The Art Car Parade (Saturday, 4/14) and lots of outdoor activities for Earth Day (4/22). 

As always, please add to the list by leaving a comment at the bottom! People read these posts, and your contribution helps get people out to cool things in Houston. Spread the love. 

 

Week 1: April 1-7

Tuesday, April 3, 2018, 07:00PM
Quinn XCII, Chelsea Cutler
Downstairs Room at White Oak Music Hall
More Info

Wednesday, April 4
Bermuda Triangle featuring Brittany Howard (of Alabama Shakes), Becca Mancari and Jesse Lafser
@ Heights Theater
More Info

Wednesday, April 4
Station Houston’s 2nd Anniversary Celebration!
More Info

Thursday, April 5
Happy Hour @ MFAH (Every Thursday)
More Info

Cultured Cocktails @ Boheme, 5-8pm
More Info

Friday, April 6
Mixed Media at MFAH
More Info

Bring Your Own Beamer, April 6
More Info

April 6-May 13
Small Ball at The MATCH
More Info

Saturday, April 7, 11am
Urban Harvest Farmers Market, 8-11am
Richmond @ East Side

Rooftop Yoga with Haley B & Fitness in the Loop
More Info

Midtown Art in the Park, 10am-6pm
@ Baldwin Park

Heartmade Spring Market, 11am-6pm
@ Main Street Square (900 & 1000 blocks of McKinney between Travis to Fannin)

First Saturday Sketch at The Riezni
More Info

Market Noir at Post HTX, 5-10pm
More Info

Serge Devant at Cirque Noir, 9pm-6am
More Info

John Evans and Lew Card, 7pm
The Mucky Duck
More Info

April 7-15
US Men’s Clay Court Championship at River Oaks Country Club
More Info

 

Week 2: April 8-14

Sunday, April 8, 10:30am
Blue Field Market with Yoga, Live Music, and Mimosas
Gibson is teaching Yoga at HTX Sports Creek
More Info

Sunday, April 8, 12pm
US Women’s National Soccer Team vs. Mexico
@ BBVA Stadium
More Info

Sunday, April 8, 5pm
Houston Polo Club - Van Conover Member Cup Final
More Info

Sunday, April 8, 2018, 07:00PM
The Oh Hellos, Wildermiss, Jaylon Ashaun
Downstairs Room at White Oak Music Hall
More Info

Tuesday, April 10th
Menu of Menus at Silver Street
More Info

April 10-15
Counter Current Festival
More Info

Wednesday, April 11
Farmers Market Downtown at City Hall

Thursday, April 12, 5-8pm
Cultured Cocktails at Magpie & Peacocks
More Info

Matt and Kim, CRUISR, TWINKIDS
Friday, April 13, 2018, 08:00PM
Downstairs Room at White Oak Music Hall
More Info

Friday, April 13
The Legendary Art Car Ball
More Info

Saturday, April 14
Urban Harvest Farmers Market, 8-11am
Richmond @ East Side

Saturday, April 14, 9am
The Do-Nuts Dash
More Info

Saturday, April 14, 11am-5pm
The Market at Sawyer Yards
More Info

Saturday, April 14, 11am
The 31st Annual Art Car Parade
More Info

 

Week 3: April 15-21

Sunday, April 15, 8am-4pm
Kayak Rentals Return to Buffalo Bayou
More Info

Sunday, April 15, 5pm
Houston Polo Club - Spring Classic
More Info

Tuesday, April 17, 11:30am
Greater Houston Partnership Council on Harvey Arts Recovery Program
More Info

Tuesday, April 17, 8pm
Grown Up Story Time at Rudyardz
More Info

Wednesday, April 18
Farmers Market Downtown at City Hall

Saturday, April 21
Urban Harvest Farmers Market, 8-11am
Richmond @ East Side

Puppies for Breakfast at Market Square Park
More Info

Saturday, April 21
The Suffers & over 20 bands @ The Great Texas BBQ Festival
More Info

Saturday, April 21, 2pm
Houston Dynamo vs. Toronto FC
More Info

 

Week 4: April 22-28

Sunday, April 22 — Earth Day
Gibson teaches Yoga at HTX Sports Creek, 10:30am

Sunday, April 22, 12-4pm
Cigna Sunday Streets - 3rd Ward
More Info

Sunday, April 22, 5pm
Houston Polo Club - Officers Classi
More Info

Tuesday, April 24, 11:30am
Greater Houston Partnership Council: The Business of Baseball
More Info

Tuesday, April 24, 5:30pm
HYPEx Speed Networking at WeWork
More Info

Wednesday, April 25, 12pm
Farmers Market Downtown at City Hall

Wednesday, April 25, 7pm
HAIM at Revention Center
More Info

Game Night at The Mucky Duck (every wednesday)
More Info

Thursday, April 26
Jack Johnson at The Woodlands Pavilion
More Info

Thursday, April 26
Buffalo Bayou in Bloom with Bayou Buddies
More Info

Thursday, April 26, 2018, 08:00PM
Baths, No Joy, Sasami Ashworth
Upstairs Room at White Oak Music Hall
More Info

Saturday, April 28
Urban Harvest Farmers Market, 8-11am
Richmond @ East Side

Saturday, April 28, 2:30pm
Houston Dash vs. North Carolina Courage
More Info

 

Anything Missed?

Let me know in the comments!

Favorite Podcasts

If you're interested in hearing new podcasts, below is a list of some of my favorite episodes. 

 

Tony Robbins - On Achievement Versus Fulfillment (link)
- On Morning Routines, Peak Performance, and Mastering Money (link)

Jamie Foxx on Workout Routines, Success Habbits, and Untold Hollywood Stories (link)

Debbie Millman - How to Design a Life (link)
How to Prioritize Your Life and Make time for What Matters (link)

Mr. Money Mustache - Living Beautifully on $25-27k Per Year (link)

Seth Godin - Managing Life: Rules, Principles, Obsessions (link)

Tim Ferriss - Morning Routines & Strategies (link)
- How to Secure Financial Freedom, Maximize Productivity, and Protect Your Health (link)
- 5 Morning Rituals that Help Me Win the Day (link)

Nick Szabo - The Quiet Master of Cryptocurrency (link)

Shay Carl - From Manual Laborer to 2.3 Billion Youtube Views (link)

Matt Mullenweg - The Benevolent Dictator of The Internet (link)

Rick Rubin - The Seclusive Zen Master (link)

Maria Popova - On Being Interesting, Creating More Time in a Day, and How to Start a Successful Blog (link)

Ramit Sethi - on Persuasion, Negotiation, and Turning a Blog Into a Sales Machine (link)

Scott Adams - The Man Behind Dilbert (link)

Derek Silvers - Developing Confidence, Finding Happiness, & Saying "No" to Millions (link)

Terry Crews - How to Have, Do, and Be All You Want (link)

 

 

My First Kayak Experience on Buffalo Bayou

After years of being envious of kayakers on the bayou, I finally set out to cross “Kayak Buffalo Bayou” off of my bucket list, and it sure wasn’t easy. 

I started by doing some research on kayak rentals in Houston. It’s easy to discovery Bayou City Adventures, however, they aren’t in operation! Unfortunately, it seems that Houston doesn’t have a rental kayak business that operates consistently out of Buffalo Bayou. This was a pretty big bummer, and I hope Houston can fix this and make kayaking more accessible for people. 

Instead, I did some research for kayaks. I first went to one of my favorite clients, Academy Sports + Outdoors, and looked for a good bayou cruiser. I ended up going with an inflatable kayak because I’m limited on space at my home. Many people are sketched out to kayak the bayou, and even more sketched out to have an inflatable kayak on the bayou. 

However, the day was beautiful. I saw many turtles, birds, and other wildlife. I was surrounded by nature including beautiful wild flowers and tall oak trees. 

This is my new favorite way of exploring Houston, all while catching a tan. 

Gibson Hall Comments
Horse Races in Houston
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With the 2018 Triple Crown races just around the corner, I want to make it a point this year to cross off "See a Horse Race" off my Houston bucket list. I only know of Sam Houston Race Park (near Willowbrook) and Houston Polo Club (near Memorial Park). Here are some of the best events this Horse Racing season. 

There's opportunity for horse races every Sunday (HPC), Monday (SHRP), Friday (SHRP), and Saturday (SHRP). 

Houston Polo Club

Spring Season: Every Sunday Apr 1, 2018 - Jun 10, 2018

Sun Apr 1 - Bluebonnet Cup - 5:00PM
Sun Apr 8 - Van Conover Member Cup Final - 5:00PM
Sun Apr 15 - Spring Classic -  5:00PM
Sun Apr 22 - Officers Cup - 5:00PM
Sun Apr 29 - St. Regis Classic) - 5:00PM
Sun May 6 - Land Rover Houston Central Cup - 5:00PM
Sun May 13 - Ponies & Petals Cup (MOTHER'S DAY) 5:00PM
Sun May 20 - USPA Southwestern Regional Classic - 5:00PM
Sun May 27 - Milagro Cup - 5:00PM
Sun Jun 3 - Vaquero Classic - 6:00PM
Sun Jun 10 - Western Challenge Cup/ USPA NYTS Junior Tournament - 6:00PM

Get Tickets for 45% off using Groupon: 
https://www.groupon.com/deals/gl-houston-polo-club-10

Location: 8552 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77024
Visit: http://houstonpoloclub.com/

 

@Michael Lewis

@Michael Lewis

@Michael Lewis

@Michael Lewis

Sam Houston Race Park

Saturday, 3/31 — Dollar Days
Programs, Sodas, Coffee, Ice Cream, Hot Dogs, and Beer all just $1! Sponsored by US Army!

Every Friday, Starting 4/6
Every Friday night has 50¢ beer, $2 wine, and live Quarter Horse racing. 

Saturday, April 28: Pat Green + Horse Racing
Hear Texas-favorite Pat Green sing Wave On Wave & watch horses race. More info

Friday, May 4: May The Fourth Be With You- Star Wars Night
Dress up as your favorite character & watch horses race. 50 cent beers, and the first 1000 people get a free light saber.

Saturday, May 5: Kentucky Derby Day
Watch & wager on live horse racing. There's also a hat contest...so.. More info.

Location: 7575 North Sam Houston Pkwy W, Houston, Texas 77064
Find out more: https://www.shrp.com/events

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Triple Crown Race Dates

And in case you missed it, here are the dates for the 2018 Triple Crown Races:

The Kentucky Derby - Churchill Downs - May 5, 2018
The Preakness Stakes - Pimlico - May 19, 2018
The Belmont Stakes - Belmont Park - June 9, 2018

Nice Weather Activities in Houston
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The sun is shining, it's not a million degrees, and the mosquitos are still embryos— the perfect combination to get outside in Houston (provided you took Zyrtec last night). This weekend is Easter / Passover and many organizations prepare events around this weekend. 

So, last weekend was jam packed with In Bloom, Bayou City Art Fest, The Kite Festival, and lots of charity events. The organizations that appeal to the masses all happened last weekend, so this weekend is stuffed with Easter Egg-stravaganzas. Since I don't have kids (and am weirded out by the oversized creepy bunny), I try to stay away from those places. If you do have kids (bless you), visit 365Houston for things to do with your kids this weekend. If you're an empty nesting hipster, read on. 

Saturday

Coffee & Cars
Gateway Classic Cars in Cypress, TX, 9am
Check out over 250 exotics cars and talk with car enthusiasts over coffee. This event happens every Saturday, and you have to go at least a couple times. Every week has new cars to check out. More Info.

Urban Harvest Farmers Market, 8am
Every Saturday located at Eastside and Richmond (near River Oaks / Kirby / Lamar HS), Urban Harvest provides Houston's largest Farmers Market. Get there as early as possible as the good produce goes fast. There's live music, lots of food trucks, and really good people + puppy watching. It's located in the same parking lot area as Kirby Ice House. You can stop by there after and tell them "the guy that made your website sent me". I don't think it gets you a free drink, but maybe? Thanks anyways!

First Saturday Arts Market
Wake up, wake up, wake up, It's the First of the Month! - Bone Thugs
Get to 19th street in the Heights for live music, vendors, crafters, artists, and much more. Enjoy a nice stroll down 19th street. There's lots to see and eat! More info.

Wine Festival
Brenner's on the Bayou, 4-7pm

Brenner's hosts this event every year, allowing Houstonians to sample lots of award winning wines. Brenner's provides a beautiful, picturesque view, or the bayou. Lots of wine will make the view even better. Zero kids in sight. More info

Houston Dynamo vs. New England Revolution
BBVA Compass Stadium, 7:30pm

I don't know much about futbol/soccer, but do know every seat at BBVA Soccer Stadium provides a great experience. EaDo (where the soccer stadium is located) is the hottest place in town right now and has several cool places to check out before the game. Grab a drink and go to the top of Kings Court next to the stadium, visit 8th Wonder Brewery & see their new We <3 Houston Sign, or visit one of my new favorite restaurants, Nancy's Hustle. Cheer on Houston's soccer team. The fans will let you know when to cheer. More info

Beauty & The Beast
Discovery Green, 8pm
So, I know I talked about avoiding little kids this weekend, and this is probably the worse place for something like that. If you love Beauty & The Beast, however, you might want to go for a little bit, sing some songs, go Roller Skating, get some food and then peace out. More info

Shrek the Musical!
Miller Outdoor Theater, 8pm

This is probably super-kid friendly, but it's also one of the first shows at Miller Outdoor Theater of the year. This is one of the best venues in Houston because the hill provides a beautiful view of the Medical Center, and it's always free. Pack a cooler, snacks, and anything else you want to bring (not glass bottles), and enjoy a musical outside. More Info

$3 beers & Astros at Hay Merchant
In celebration of the Astros 2018 season opener, Hay Merchant is open all day with $3 beers. If you love craft beer & the Astros, this is a great place to enjoy some Astros baseball all weekend!

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More Things to Do All Weekend Longs

  • Catch a light show during sunset at Rice University's Turrell Light Exhibit

  • Look for bluebonnets along White Oak Bayou

  • Visit the Contemporary Arts Museum

  • Go to The Menil Collection

  • Go on a Street Art Tour

  • Kayak the Bayou: BONUS, you get to hear the music from In Bloom

  • Take a picnic and go to the Water Wall

  • Visit the Zen Gardens next to the Zoo

  • Look at Azaleas in River Oaks or Bayou Bend

  • Bike through Glenwood Cemetery

  • Take a stroll through nature at the Arboretum

  • Walk, run, jog in Memorial park

  • Bring a deck of cards and play your favorite game in Memorial Park

Did I Miss Anything?

If I missed listing a cool event happening in Houston this weekend, let me know in the comments! I'd be happy to add it. 

Guide to In Bloom Houston
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I've been to every music festival at Eleanor Tinsley since they started in 2009 (shout out to The Eastern Sea!). I've learned a lot throughout the years for how to make the best of the music filled weekend. Apparently the organizers have also learned a lot, hence moving it from Summer to Spring (even though the move was much more complicated than just picking a different date). 

Being a veteran to the Houston-music and festival scene, I wanted to offer some advice: 

  • Pack a Camelback. Outside in Houston always means there's a chance to sweat. Be prepared by taking an empty camelback to the festival. You can fill it in once you're there.

  • Bring/wear sun screen: Once again, you'll be outside all day in Houston. Wear sunscreen so you can participate Sunday, also.

  • Do the morning yoga: You're going to be standing, drinking, slouching, and not doing great things with your body throughout the day. Start the day with a little zen, stretching, and good vibes. It'll go a long way and help you throughout the day.

  • Moderate your drinking: It's definitely cool to throw back a beer or two, but you're going to end up being exhausted by the time the closer gets on at night. My general rule (in life) is to not drink when the sun is out.

  • Show your pride: this festival is all about HOUSTON. Wear your favorite Astros hat, Rockets Jersey, Gallery Furniture Tshirt, or anything else to show your Houston pride.

  • Plan your schedule: take a moment to note some "must not miss" acts this year. Maybe it's Sylvan Esso, maybe it's lil dicky. Whoever you want to see, make a plan to see it.

  • Take advantage of the art installations: every year at FPSF, the art is out of this world! I hope In Bloom can keep up with past events and also have knockout installations.

  • Ride Your Bike / Walk / Uber. Whatever you do, do NOT drive to this event. Traffic is horrible before and after, and there isn't much room to park since the festival is so big. If you do have to drive to get close, I'd still recommend bringing a bike or renting a BCycle. You'll be waiting a long time for an Uber after the festival if that's your option.

  • Find a new band! Explore the festival. Find a new act that you've never heard of and give them a listen! I've found many great bands this way. If you haven't seen/heard Say Girl Say, carve out some time Saturday to find a new favorite ukulele band.

 

Gibson's In Bloom Schedule

In Bloom Festival Day 1 at Eleanor Tinsley Park
11:30am: Yoga with Black Swan at Bud Light Stage
2pm: Say Girl Say at Ostara Stage
3:40pm: MELVV at Ostara Stage
6:30pm: Grizzly Bear at Bud Light Stage
9:30pm: Beck on Bud Light Stage, Incubus on Flora Stage

In Bloom Festival Day 2: 
11am: Black Swan Yoga at Bud Light Stage
4pm: Houndmouth at Fauna Stage
4:40pm: Sylvan Esso at Bud Light Stage
5:40pm: Twin Shadow at Fauna Stage
6:30pm: Explosions in the Sky at Flora Stage
7:45pm: Gramatik at Ostara Stage
8:30pm: Queens of the Stone Age at Flora Stage

What to do in Houston this Weekend: March 23-25
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This weekend has so much excitement going on and it's been such wonderful weather outside lately, I just had to make a blog post to share and make some event recommendations. If you don't have plans for the weekend already, I suggest getting out a spreadsheet to figure out how you're going to cram all of this in: 

All Weekend Long

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In Bloom Music Festival: 2-day music festival happening all day Saturday and Sunday at Eleanor Tinsley Park. Check out my In Bloom guide for some tips to make the most of your weekend. Some acts I'm most looking forward to: Grizzly Bear, Say Girl Say, Explosions in the Sky, Sylvan Esso, Houndmouth, Twin Shadow, and of course, Yoga by Black Swan starting at 11am. More info.

Bayou City Art Festival: the largest art festival in Houston which only happens twice a year with over 300 artists. Every fall, the event is hosted downtown. Every spring, the event is hosted at Memorial Park. The event is both Friday-Sunday and you can find discount tickets at Randalls for $10. More Info

 

Friday

Mark Austin’s Birthday Party: One of Houston’s most influential music people is turning a year older, and throwing a birthday party and concert to celebrate. There will be performances by: Los Skarnales, Buxton, Vodi, Wrestlers, & John Allen Stephens. Tickets are $20 and all proceeds go to LifeGift, which offers hope to the thousands of people in Texas and beyond who need lifesaving organ transplants. The event is Friday night at Heights Theater on 19th. More info + tickets

Saturday

Bayou City Art Festival Day 2 at Memorial Park, 10am-6pm

In Bloom Festival Day 1 at Eleanor Tinsley Park
11:30am: Yoga with Black Swan at Bud Light Stage
2pm: Say Girl Say at Ostara Stage
3:40pm: MELVV at Ostara Stage
6:30pm: Grizzly Bear at Bud Light Stage
9:30pm: Beck on Bud Light Stage, Incubus on Flora Stage

Free Yoga at Rothko Chapel: get your zen on at one of the most calm and inviting places in Houston: Rothko Chapel. Yoga starts at 9am and is brought to you by Bayou Bliss Yoga. More info.

Free Yoga at HTX Sports Creek: join @Fitnessintheloop every Sunday for Free Yoga at HTX Sports Creek. Enjoy yoga on the blue soccer field, tacos by Tierra Caliente, and mimosas after yoga. Also, mark your calendars for 4/8 and 4/22 because Gibson will be teaching free yoga at HTX Sports Creek those days! More info.

The Lemon Climb at Chase Tower: For the first time in years, you can go to the top of Chase Tower and get a stunning view from the top of Houston’s tallest skyscraper. The only catch is that you have to climb your way to the top, while raising awareness and money for Alex’s Lemonade Stand Fund: a national childhood cancer foundation that raises money for research into new treatments and cures for children fighting cancer. (Shout out to Meredith for making this impact and event!) Register here.

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Sunday

Bayou City Art Festival Day 3 at Memorial Park, 10am-6pm

In Bloom Festival Day 2: 
11am: Black Swan Yoga at Bud Light Stage
4pm: Houndmouth at Fauna Stage
4:40pm: Sylvan Esso at Bud Light Stage
5:40pm: Twin Shadow at Fauna Stage
6:30pm: Explosions in the Sky at Flora Stage
7:45pm: Gramatik at Ostara Stage
8:30pm: Queens of the Stone Age at Flora Stage

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5th Annual Kite Festival: This event is great for kids, and not so great if you don’t like kids. There are kids and kites everywhere. The scene is surreal, and worth checking out if you’ve never been. Biking is strongly encouraged so you don’t have to worry about parking. This event is 10-5 at Hermann Park. More Info.

Bayou City Outdoors Graffiti Art & Bike Ride at Market Square Park: Bike around the city and explore some of the best street art Houston has to offer. Meet Sunday at Market Square Park at noon and ride around with other art-loving bikers. This event is 12-4pm. More info.

 

More Ideas for the Weekend: 

  • Catch a light show during sunset at Rice University's Turrell Light Exhibit
  • Look for bluebonnets along White Oak Bayou
  • Visit the Contemporary Arts Museum
  • Go to The Menil Collection
  • Go on a Street Art Tour
  • Kayak the Bayou: BONUS, you get to hear the music from In Bloom
  • Take a picnic and go to the Water Wall
  • Visit the Zen Gardens next to the Zoo
  • Look at Azaleas in River Oaks or Bayou Bend
  • Bike through Glenwood Cemetery 
  • Take a stroll through nature at the Arboretum
  • Walk, run, jog in Memorial park
  • Bring a deck of cards and play your favorite game in Memorial Park

Did I miss anything?

If I missed listing a cool event happening in Houston this weekend, let me know in the comments! I'd be happy to add it. 

#HOUSxSW 2018

2018 was my 6th annual trip to Austin for #SxSW. There's quite a few things I've learned in past years that made this year a success. Here is a round up of advice I've heard in the past, and how it helped me this year.

1. Bring an Extra Pair of Shoes because you do a LOT of walking. Very true! The first year of SXSW involved so much walking that I actually wore through the soles of my sneakers. This year, I averaged 12,043 steps/day. 

2. Bring / Rent a Bike. If you checked out the #SxSW map, you noticed that many of the events are downtown, but separated by a few blocks. Bringing a bike has been extremely valuable during my trips. Not only does it make commuting to/from home base a breeze, but also helps you with Tip #1 because you don't have to walk so dang much. If you can't bring a bike to Austin, rent a bCycle for the week!

3. Prepare for ALL Weather. During my short week at #SxSW, I experienced a freeze (literally wore gloves 1 day), followed by beaming heat the next day. I caught a pretty nice farmer's tan from waiting in line so long. Bring a spray bottle, umbrella, and sunscreen for when it's way too hot. Bring an extra sweater, gloves, and scarf for when it gets too cold. Be prepared for just about anything: rain, snow, sleet, sun, etc. 

4. Go analog as much as possible. SXSW was filled with technology and made for tech nerds like you and me. However, spending all day and all week in a digital world is exhausting. Instead of spending your time waiting in line staring at your phone, start up a conversation. If you visit talks and get distracted on your laptop, put it away and take analog notes. SXSW is so much about networking and making connections. Don't miss the opportunity because you're staring at your phone!

5. Stock up on FREE things! It's easy to find free things at SXSW including Tshirts, Koozies, Hankerchiefs, Protein Bars, Energy Drinks, and much more. Whenever you find something free that you might like, grab it. Vendors give away so much free stuff and want people to actually use it. Think about your friends, coworkers, family back home that don't get to go to SXSW. Bring them back a little something, especially if there's no cost to you. 

6. Be prepared to abort. Is the line way too long and you don't think you can get in? Abort. Is the speaker or talk less exciting than you thought it would be? Abort. Are you hungry and can't pay attention to the talk? Abort. Are you just following friends and not making your own plan? Abort. There's too much going on at SXSW to just sit around and wait. Create your own destiny, and don't be afraid to get up during a talk. 

7. Find a place to relax. Mental breaks are a great way to charge during the day. Find some place where you can take some time to review your notes, drop your new friends a message, or do some yoga. SXSW moves pretty fast, but it's great to find time to take care of yourself amongst the mayhem. 

8. Monitor your drinking. Every event at SXSW seems to give away free booze. There were talks in the morning that included beer with breakfast. This always seems great at the time, but remember a lot of the great connections happen early in the morning. Having a wild night on Saturday usually leads to a very slow Sunday. It's ok to have fun, but don't have so much fun that you ruin the rest of your trip!

9. Bring a Portable Phone Charger. Even though I mentioned going analog as much as possible, there will be opportunities where you'd like to use your phone. Some days at SXSW are very long and you don't have enough time to run home for a quick nap. For those days, make sure you have a spare phone charger. Even if you don't use it, a friend of yours might seriously thank you for thinking ahead! 

10. Bring business cards and make connections. Austin is full of out of towners during SXSW, looking to make genuine connections. Be better prepared by having a 10 second elevator pitch and updated business cards ready for whenever you meet someone who's first question is always, "so, what do you do?". Make it interesting so they remember you!

 

#HOUSxSW Ambassador's Preview to #SxSW2018
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What's it mean to be a #HOUSxSW Ambassador? 

This year, I'm teaming up with Houston Exponential and Station Houston to represent Houston in Austin during SxSW 2018. A group of entrepreneurs are getting together for the week of SxSW Interactive (the time devoted to tech, apps, nerds, etc). 

I'm really looking forward to hearing from leaders from some amazing brands like Pinterest, Gatorade, Etsy, Bumble, DropBox, Kendra Scott, Instagram, and many more. The sessions I'm looking forward to the most are around Branding, Marketing, Design, and Innovation. 

 

What is Houston Exponential and Station Houston?

Both organizations are helping propel Houston forward through innovation and entrepreneurship, which is something I am 100% behind. Station Houston is Houston's hub for innovation, located in downtown, and was founded by my former co-Pilot & Ukulele jam-mate @GraceRodriguez

 

Where I'm headed in Austin

SXSW Free All Day Stuff

The Map Above has places available to Interactive Badge holders and are deemed "Highly Likely to Give Out Free Swag like Tshirts". 

SxSW Pro Tip: Bring a Bike or At Least 2 Pairs of Shoes. There's a LOT of Walking. 

 

About #HOUSxSW

The #HOUSxSW campaign aims to position Houston as a leader in creativity and innovation, building recognition and relationships with technology founders, investors, experts, influences and startups that may not have previously considered working with Houston startups, doing business in Houston, or taking advantage of all the talent and resources Houston has to offer.

 

About Houston

Houston is the most welcoming and diverse city in America: nearly 1 in 4 residents are foreign-born, and over 145 languages are spoken here.  

Houston is the #1 City for minority entrepreneurs: They can leverage our diverse workforce, and their dollars go farther with our lower cost of living!

From space travel to healthcare to energy to enterprise, Houston is where the world convenes to solve the problems that matter!

 

March 10

Mar 10, 2018
9:30am – 10:30am
JW Marriott
Salon D
110 E 2nd St.


Mar 10, 2018
9:30am – 10:30am


Mar 10, 2018
3:30pm – 4:30pm
JW Marriott
Salon D
110 E 2nd St.


Mar 10, 2018
5:00pm – 6:00pm


Mar 10, 2018
7:00pm – 8:30pm
The Hideout
617 Congress Ave.

March 11

Mar 11, 2018
11:00am – 12:00pm
Four Seasons
98 San Jacinto Blvd.
Mar 11, 2018
11:00am – 12:00pm


Mar 11, 2018
11:00am – 12:00pm

Learning UX from Board Games

presented by Capital One
Mar 11, 2018
12:30pm – 1:30pm


Mar 11, 2018
2:00pm – 3:00pm
JW Marriott
Salon D
110 E 2nd St.


Mar 11, 2018
2:00pm – 3:00pm
Four Seasons
Ballroom AB
98 San Jacinto Blvd.

 

#HOUSxSW #TeamHouston

Chef Fest 2018
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I was invited to the inaugural Chef Fest, hosted at Loam Agronomics in Richmond, TX. We spent the day at the farm, eating delicious food prepared by some of Houston's best chefs. 

The Chefs (and their instagrams) included:
Matt McCallister (@mattft33), Monica Pope (@chefmonicapope), Andrew Wiseheart (@contigoaustin), Adam Brick (@adambrick), Ned Elliott (@foreigndomestic), Robert Lyford (@patinagreen), Rebecca Masson (@fluffbakebar@sugarfairy), Jill Bartolome (@billjartolome), Ara Malekian (@aramalekian), Chris Zettlemoyer (@rkcfoodtruck), Stephanie Hoban (@ripecuisine), Little Kitchen HTX (@littlekitchenhtx). 

Winner of TIP Awards: UP Art Studio
Mini Mural Project Team: Gibson Hall with Co Founders of UP Art Studio, Noah &amp; Elia Quiles.

Mini Mural Project Team: Gibson Hall with Co Founders of UP Art Studio, Noah & Elia Quiles.

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Last week was the 3rd annual Tourism Incentive Program (TIP) Awards and awarded 21 Houston-based organizations with a total of $275,000 to help make Houston a better destination for tourists. 

This past year was HUGE for travel and visitors coming to Houston. Between the Superbowl, World Series, and several international festivals, over 20 million people visited Houston. 

Each organization was eligible to win money from Houstonfirst and Visit Houston if they could create a compelling program involving at least 1 nonprofit and 1 hotel in order to market Houston as a destination worth visiting. 

UP Art Studio won $10,000 from Houstonfirst and Visit Houston, and is partnering with Hotel Ylem, Omni Hotel Houston, and Houston Bike Share (BCycle).

Since starting the Mini Mural Project a little more than 2 years ago, UP Art Studio has helped over 40 artists paint more than 185 electrical control cabinets in Houston. We've had several requests for maps in order to help people go on Mini Mural tours. We're working with our partners to create Bike Tours, Walking Tours, and packages for visitors staying at Hotel Ylem and Omni Hotel. Be on the lookout for Mini Mural Tours happening soon!

Visit MiniMurals.org for an interactive map of the boxes. 

View from The Downtown Aquarium

 

David Mincberg, Chairman of Houston First and Jorge Franz, Sr. VP Tourism at Visit Houston presented the organizations with oversized checks. 

Other winning organizations include: Alley Theater, Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, Escuderia Charities, Freneticore, Fresh Arts / Spacetaker, Houston Bike Share, Houston International Dance Coalition, Houston Marathon, Lyc Concours, Mercury Baroque Ensemble, Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Houston AfriFEST, Magical Winter Lights, San Jacinto Museum of History, Sea Star Base, Theater Under The Stars, UP Art Studio, Voila Lab, and Washington on the Brazos. 

 
 
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Map of Mini Murals

Map of Mini Murals

 

New Mini Murals Painted in 2018

UP Art Studio, winner of Tourism Incentive Program for Mini Murals Tour

UP Art Studio, winner of Tourism Incentive Program for Mini Murals Tour

The 83rd Annual Azalea Trail by River Oaks Garden

It was my first time ever buying a ticket for River Oaks Garden Club's annual Azalea Trail festival. It's been happening for 83 years, and the tour even gave a glimpse of what life what like for some (very wealthy) Houstonians during that time. 

The tour included the Rienzi, Bayou Bend, and 4 private homes that were amazing. We weren't allowed to take photos inside the private houses, but they were incredible to see and loved hearing the stories from everybody participating from River Oaks Garden Club. 

There was too much to see in 1 day, and look forward to another amazing tour next year!

Let it (Vir)G🌝! New month, new moon.
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Let it (Vir)G🌝! New month, new moon.

@mysticmamma writes: 🌕 FULL MOON 🌕 in Virgo (3/1) on the Pisces axis calls us to ground our roots deep into Mother Earth to anchor ourselves through the emotional seas that have been surging. The more we open up, the more we feel, and the more attuned we become to the suffering of others and our dear planet Earth. The injustices and the tragedies are numerous and we are all aching for change. Virgo is the healer within, reminding us to embody our Spirit so we can bring forth real change in our lives for the benefit of all. Her medicine is love in service, and her practical magic helps us streamline our directive so we can focus on how best to be in service of our collective healing. 🌝

Let’s make this a great month.