The city of London, known as Londinium, was established by the Romans in 43 AD, marking its foundation over two thousand years ago. Meanwhile, Christopher Columbus embarked on his historic voyage in 1492, discovering what became known as “The New World.” Following this, the Dutch West India Company laid the groundwork for the site of New York City in 1624, establishing it as a fur trading outpost 132 years later.
A noteworthy milestone occurred in 1925 when the population of New York City caught up to that of London. Surprisingly, New York City took just 433 years to reach a population equivalent to London’s. In comparison, London itself took a staggering 1,883 years to achieve the same level of population growth. This striking comparison sheds light on the exponential rate of urban development and the influence of various factors, including technological advancements, economic opportunities, and cultural dynamics.
Considering this trend, one might speculate on the future of human settlement on other celestial bodies. It is reasonable to believe that within the next 433 years, or perhaps even less, a reasonably sized population could inhabit Mars full-time. While Christopher Columbus embarked on his journey without knowing his destination, we possess the knowledge that Mars exists and has the potential to sustain human life.
Drawing a parallel between the historic moon landing in 1969 and our progress in space exploration, it is plausible to anticipate significant advancements in Martian colonization by the year 2402. By marking 1969 as our starting point, it becomes a reasonable objective to envision a thriving, permanent population on Mars by the year 2101.
Contemplating the possibilities is mind-boggling to consider the future trajectory of human civilization. As we navigate through time, progress unfolds in astonishing ways. The future holds immense potential, surpassing even the most fantastic visions one could conjure. While comparing it to showing an electric car with Apple CarPlay to an ancient Pharaoh may seem whimsical, the trajectory of progress suggests that civilization will continue to advance despite setbacks and challenges, such as the collapse of empires and periods of darkness in history.
In conclusion, reflecting on the past and projecting into the future, we witness the remarkable journey of human civilization. The parallels between the growth of London and New York City’s populations shed light on the potential for human settlement on Mars within the coming centuries. The prospect of Martian colonization is an exciting and awe-inspiring endeavor as we embrace the ever-evolving nature of our species and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
The world can be a cruel and hostile place. Yelp is likely one of the most negative review sites on the Internet. Take any business, and their reviews are likely lower on Yelp than on any other platform. This speaks to the type of reviewers that flock to Yelp.
With Yelp’s stock tanking, it may be time to reconsider its current business model. Instead of conditioning users to leave novels of negativity, maybe Yelp should encourage users to leave 5-star reviews or nothing.
The adage if you have nothing nice to say, it’s better not to say it, should apply to Yelp. Most negative reviews on the site should be scrutinized as psychological/verbal abuse towards staff.
Instead, Yelp should attract positive posts that uplift staff and recommend the very best of the business community. It shouldn’t list every business on its site to bash them. That’s a quick way not to make friends. But instead, it should be an honor to be listed on Yelp, displaying how many great reviews a particular business has earned.
When we share music, we share the best. We don’t share the worst song we’ve ever heard. Restaurants, dealerships, and hotels should be no different.
At the very least, Yelp should hide its negative reviews and categorize them into constructive areas for improvement seen privately by businesses. Highlight the best companies to patronize and shut off the spread of toxic negativity that is psychological abuse toward staff.
Notice that Yelp can’t be reviewed on Yelp. If business owners honestly reviewed it, Yelp wouldn’t fair so well.
Aside from being mainly damaging or hostile to most businesses on its site. Yelp also makes up its own rules on how a company should present itself. That isn’t for Yelp to say. That right belongs to the businesses.
Also, Yelp takes too long to update business hours, sometimes reporting the wrong business hours. That, too, should be a right reserved for businesses. These should be updatable instantly and controlled by a central hub. This criticism applies to all review and map sites.
Each site that pops up gives business owners more to keep track of and can harm a business by providing inaccurate information.
In summary, Yelp should focus on positive communication about businesses. If negative reviews are still collected, they should be categorized for constructive criticism to be shared privately with the firms that wish to improve. Business information should belong to the businesses themselves. Yelp makes too many rules about how companies should present themselves, even though no business ever asked to be on their site. Who does Yelp think they are? And finally, Yelp should be reviewable on Yelp. To challenge themselves to improve.
It’s always painless to dish out criticism about other businesses, but how about the same fair treatment, Yelp? Would you be withered to scorn by all the world’s business owners? I think so.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Yelp can focus on being more positive and spreading positivity instead of being a magnet for ungrateful customers with bad attitudes who spew out verbal abuse on those who serve them. YouTube still has a dislike button. Still, they realized that giving people an option to be negative brings out the worst in people.
I challenge Yelp to be better. Share this article if you agree to help inspire the world to be more positive or, at the very least, more constructive and less toxic.
The benefits of artificial intelligence over traditional photoshop editing methods include saving time, a lower learning curve, ease of use, and a better end product. Photography is not about the difficulty level. It should be appreciated solely for the final product.
Processed with Lensa with Magic Correction
These advanced photo editing apps create stunning pieces nearly instantaneously. And can even restore historic monochromatic images to color for the first time.
This Hotpot AI service analyzes black and white pictures and turns them into realistic color photos. To do this, we built off the wonderful DeOldify project and applied proprietary advancements based on the latest techniques in deep learning, a subfield of machine learning.
The outcome is a sophisticated prediction about the colors of the people and objects in a picture, but like any prediction, it could be wrong or biased. For instance, our AI might colorize a shirt blue when it was actually red.
Exciting News: My Debut NFT on OpenSea Showcasing a Timeless Creation!
I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve recently embarked on an exciting journey into the world of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) by publishing my very first creation on OpenSea! This groundbreaking platform has revolutionized the art and digital collectibles market, providing a unique space for creators to showcase and sell their one-of-a-kind digital assets.
But first, let’s dive into what OpenSea is and its remarkable history. Established in 2017, OpenSea has become the largest decentralized marketplace for NFTs, offering a vast array of digital collectibles, virtual land, art, and other unique digital assets. It provides creators, artists, and collectors with a platform to buy, sell, and trade their digital creations securely, transparently, and efficiently using blockchain technology.
Now, let’s demystify the concept of NFTs. An NFT, short for Non-Fungible Token, is a unique digital asset that represents ownership or proof of authenticity of a specific item, be it art, music, videos, virtual real estate, or even virtual items within video games. Unlike cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, which are fungible and interchangeable, NFTs are distinct and cannot be replicated or exchanged on a like-for-like basis.
The allure of NFTs lies in their ability to offer verifiable ownership and scarcity in the digital realm. Each NFT is tied to a blockchain, most commonly built on the Ethereum network, ensuring immutable records of ownership and transaction history. This innovation has created a paradigm shift, enabling creators to monetize their digital creations in ways previously unimaginable.
Returning to my debut NFT, I chose to use an image that holds great personal significance—a creation from my college days that earned recognition in the prestigious Best of College Photography 2011. This image not only represents a pivotal moment in my artistic journey but also embodies the timeless beauty and expression that I seek to share with the world.
By minting and publishing this image as an NFT on OpenSea, I aim to not only celebrate the past achievements of my artistic career but also embrace the transformative power of blockchain technology in the world of art and digital collectibles. Through the uniqueness and indisputable authenticity of my NFT, collectors and art enthusiasts can now own a piece of my creative history, immortalized on the blockchain.
As I embark on this new chapter, I am eager to explore the possibilities and potential that NFTs and platforms like OpenSea offer. It is a thrilling time for artists and creators as we witness the convergence of technology and art, opening up new avenues for exposure, monetization, and interaction with a global audience.
I invite you to join me on this exciting journey into the world of NFTs and OpenSea, where creativity knows no bounds and the digital realm becomes a vibrant canvas for artistic expression. Stay tuned for more updates and future releases as I continue to explore the limitless possibilities of this evolving landscape. Together, let’s shape the future of art and redefine what it means to create and own in the digital age.
In January 2007, I was introduced to the Rim and La Cantera. I had never seen any place ritzier than here. Keep in mind I was a teenager, and it was very new.
There is Stone Oak, Terrell Hills, Shavano Park, and Alamo Heights, but nothing beats La Cantera. That’s my humble opinion.
Growing up, the La Cantera/Rim side of town was new and exciting. It still is, though it’s not as new. It’s about as old as I was when I first discovered it.
When the opportunity came to live in my childhood paradise, I took it without hesitation.
I can’t stress how much I loved this area as a kid! I think that’s why it means so much to me. Whatever you idealize as a child leaves an impression. I could visit more extraordinary places today, but they won’t have the same impact as when I was younger.
My wife and I have tried to make the most of it in the eight months of living here. We knew it was never a long-term thing. And for me, it was my childhood dream.
We visited many of the attractions here, but not all. I wish we had gone to Fiesta Texas; it’s so close to us. It’s never been closer!
We did visit the new Andretti’s. Before moving here, I had never heard of it.
During COVID-19, everything was mostly empty. Perfect for our little getaway.
We enjoyed tasty meals. And, of course, great company as newlyweds.
I may never know who was behind creating this special place for San Antonio to enjoy, but I want whoever it is to know I liked it.
I suppose it’s a lot like seeing a Ferrari F40 as a child while playing video games, and then you can drive one as an adult. It just brings back all kinds of positive emotions!
Some dream of going to Paris, but for me, I’ve already lived in my favorite spot on the planet. Though it is brief, I will never forget my first year of marriage spent here.
Our friends were very helpful in helping us move in. These will be great memories in the future.
I was very grateful when Paul offered to help me assemble the rolling island. It seemed like a big project, and it was. It took several hours.
It was a great learning experience for me. I had never used so many tools before. I never really had to. But with all the new furniture came a lot of assemblies. There’s a first time for everything.
Kara came home to a completed rolling island. Each night I worked on a new project. I remember thinking this would be the most daunting, along with the TV stand, even though I had done one of those before.
I imagine it would get easier if I worked at IKEA and assembled showroom model furniture every day. Staring at instructions while a mess of parts lays around you just before bedtime isn’t the most fun experience. But when you have friends along for the journey, it feels like you can accomplish any project.
A coworker asked me if I liked where I lived and if the traffic was terrible. I hadn’t experienced the awful traffic because COVID-19 had everything closed when we first moved in.
And I was rarely out at heavy traffic times.
Well, eventually, I experienced an hour of traffic crossing two lights. And we had groceries in the trunk.
I could see this being an awful drag if it became daily. But most days, I don’t experience horrible traffic.
Most days, the road is nearly empty.
It’s just been a lot more traffic lately. I guess this is what back to normal looks like. I’m starting to remember how it was when I was younger.
And I get it. The fireworks shows are just spectacular! Everyone wants to see them.
It’s been a significant span of time since I last embraced Western attire in my wardrobe. Reflecting on my personal style journey, I can’t help but reminisce about my faithful companions—my cherished Lucchese boots. These remarkable boots have been with me since I was 15 years old, and now, at the age of 30, they hold countless memories of my fashion choices throughout the years.
In their heyday, my Lucchese boots were a staple in my wardrobe, effortlessly complementing my everyday outfits, accompanying me to formal events, and even gracing my feet on Sunday mornings as I attended church. The versatility of these boots allowed them to seamlessly transition from casual to formal occasions, showcasing their timeless appeal.
Aaron Garcia, age 15. A few days after receiving a pair of Lucchese boots as a gift.
However, as the years went by, I found myself gravitating towards the allure of comfort, ultimately opting for a cozy pair of slip-on Sketchers. While my Sketchers provided immediate ease and convenience, allowing me to navigate daily activities with ease, they couldn’t quite capture the same sense of character and history that my Lucchese boots had accumulated over the years.
Aaron Garcia circa Junior Year of High School. Wearing boots with Tuxedo Tails.
In many ways, my transition from Lucchese boots to Sketchers represented a shift in priorities—an embrace of comfort over tradition. Yet, as time has passed, I find myself longing for the unique charm and craftsmanship that defined my Lucchese boots. The allure of Western attire, with its rugged yet refined aesthetic, continues to beckon, reminding me of the distinctive flair and confidence that came with donning those boots.
As I reflect on my style journey, I recognize the significance of nostalgia and the longing to reconnect with the past. Perhaps it’s time to revisit my Western roots and reintroduce the elegance and authenticity that Lucchese boots bring to any ensemble. The enduring legacy of Lucchese, rooted in craftsmanship and style, reminds me that true fashion transcends trends and seasons, leaving a lasting impression on both the wearer and those around them.
Lucchese Teju Lizard skin boots. The official color is known as “peanut brittle.” These boots were made in San Antonio, Texas, likely in the 1970s, before the boot-making operations moved to El Paso. I have had these for at least 15 years now.
An adventure awaited me as I stepped foot into Boot Barn, an iconic haven for Western attire. Accompanied by Kara, she kindly extended an offer to purchase a hat for me, an opportunity I gladly embraced. With excitement coursing through my veins, I perused the diverse collection of cowboy hats, seeking the perfect match to reflect my personal style and Western spirit.
After careful consideration, a cowboy hat caught my eye, its distinct shape and quality craftsmanship captivating my imagination. With the hat secured, I realized it was the ideal moment to embark on a quest for a new Western belt, an accessory I hadn’t adorned in quite some time. The reason for my belt hiatus? Well, it can be attributed to the simple fact that I outgrew my previous one—a testament to my undeniable appreciation for the mouthwatering delights of burgers that have graced my palate over the years.
As I ventured deeper into the store, I was surrounded by an impressive array of Western belts, each exhibiting unique designs, materials, and intricate details. It was a testament to the artistry and attention to detail that Western fashion encompasses. With eager anticipation, I began exploring the options, seeking a belt that not only exuded timeless style but also embraced the durability required for everyday wear.
Amidst the assortment of belts, I discovered a piece that seamlessly blended Western charm with a touch of contemporary flair. Its rich, genuine leather and carefully embossed patterns evoked a sense of heritage and craftsmanship. With a confident smile, I knew I had found the perfect companion to accompany my newfound hat.
The experience of rediscovering Western accessories at Boot Barn, guided by Kara’s generous offer, infused my journey with a sense of nostalgia and renewed appreciation for Western fashion. It served as a reminder that personal style is an expression of who we are and can be rekindled at any moment, even after a temporary departure from its embrace.
Within the vibrant walls of Boot Barn, a renowned purveyor of Western attire, the distinct brand of Cody James beckoned me with its allure. As I perused the vast selection of merchandise, it became abundantly clear that Cody James held a prominent presence within the store. Its products exuded a timeless Western charm that resonated with my personal style.
Among the treasure trove of cowboy hats, the first one to catch my eye bore the esteemed name of Cody James. There was an instant connection, as if it were meant to be. The hat effortlessly encapsulated the essence of Western fashion, evoking a sense of adventure and rugged authenticity. However, being thorough in my decision-making, I took the time to try on several other hats, exploring the myriad styles and designs available.
Yet, despite the variety, it was the initial hat from Cody James that continued to captivate me. Its craftsmanship, fit, and aesthetic appeal seamlessly aligned with my vision, ensuring a perfect blend of comfort and style. With each hat tried on, the connection to Cody James remained steadfast, reinforcing my instinctual choice.
As I proceeded through the store, the allure of Cody James extended beyond the realm of hats. Their merchandise stood as a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and authenticity. Western boots, apparel, and accessories bearing the Cody James insignia adorned the shelves, each embodying the rich heritage and rugged spirit of the West.
Drawn to the remarkable craftsmanship and attention to detail, I found myself irresistibly drawn to several Cody James items. The allure was simply too compelling to resist. From boots crafted with care to apparel that exuded Western flair, each piece resonated with my love for Western fashion and the sense of adventure it embodies.
As I donned my pull-up mask in the era of COVID-19, a sense of nostalgia and admiration washed over me. Its design, reminiscent of a classic bandana, evoked images of the iconic cowboys of yesteryears. It was as if the mask itself became a modern-day interpretation of the rugged, free-spirited cowboy aesthetic.
The moment I first secured the pull-up mask around my face, I couldn’t help but notice the striking resemblance it bore to the timeless bandanas that adorned the necks of cowboys traversing vast landscapes. The familiar paisley pattern and the way it draped across my face conjured images of resilience, independence, and the untamed spirit that characterized the cowboy way of life.
With every wear, I felt a connection to the cowboy heritage, embracing the sense of adventure and tenacity that came with it. The pull-up mask became a symbolic reminder of the resilience we all possessed during these challenging times. Like the cowboys of old, we faced uncertainties head-on, adapting to new norms while staying true to our spirit.
As I perused the selection of belts, my attention was drawn to one that already came with a belt buckle. Although I had plans to replace it with the cherished State of Texas Seal belt buckle I possess, the task of locating it remained. In the meantime, I opted for a belt that would still bring me joy, adorned with an intricate design featuring longhorns—a fitting tribute to the essence of the West that resonated with me.
With the belt secured, I shifted my focus to the well-worn boots that had faithfully accompanied me on countless adventures over the past 15 years. Curiosity got the best of me, prompting me to delve into their origins and unravel their history. Little did I know, my boots had a story far older than I had initially presumed, dating back potentially 34 to 51 years.
The realization that these boots may have weathered the sands of time for several decades added an extra layer of appreciation to their already significant sentimental value. It was a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and enduring quality that Lucchese boots are renowned for. Each scuff and crease etched upon the leather served as a testament to the journeys they had traversed, the memories they had witnessed, and the stories they silently carried.
Intrigued by the possibility of uncovering the true origins of my beloved boots, I delved deeper into their history, eagerly piecing together clues and consulting experts in the field. The process became a voyage of discovery, an exploration of the legacy and heritage encapsulated within those worn leather soles.
Lucchese, a legendary name in the world of western boots, has a rich and storied history that spans over a century. Established in 1883 by Salvatore Lucchese, an Italian immigrant, the company has become synonymous with expert craftsmanship, quality materials, and timeless style.
The journey of Lucchese began when Salvatore Lucchese arrived in the United States and settled in San Antonio, Texas. Drawing upon his knowledge and skills as a bootmaker, Salvatore opened a small boot shop, dedicating himself to the art of handcrafting exceptional boots that would soon gain recognition for their superior quality.
The reputation of Lucchese boots quickly spread, and the brand’s commitment to excellence propelled its success. The boots gained popularity among ranchers, cowboys, and riders who sought footwear that could withstand the demands of their rugged lifestyles while embodying the spirit of the American West.
Over the years, Lucchese has remained true to its heritage, upholding the tradition of handcrafting each boot with meticulous attention to detail. The company’s commitment to quality has never wavered, and it continues to source the finest leathers and materials from around the world.
One of the defining characteristics of Lucchese boots is their exceptional fit. The brand’s master bootmakers employ time-honored techniques to create boots that contour to the foot, providing unmatched comfort and support. The process involves measuring the foot, selecting the perfect last, and meticulously crafting the boot to ensure a precise fit.
Throughout its history, Lucchese has collaborated with iconic figures, including entertainers, musicians, and even U.S. Presidents. Celebrities such as John Wayne, Elvis Presley, and President Lyndon B. Johnson have been known to wear Lucchese boots, solidifying the brand’s status as an American icon.
Lucchese’s commitment to innovation has also played a significant role in shaping its legacy. The company has embraced modern advancements in technology and design while staying true to its traditional roots. This delicate balance ensures that Lucchese boots continue to evolve with the times while maintaining the craftsmanship and authenticity that define the brand.
Today, Lucchese boots remain highly sought after by Western boot enthusiasts, collectors, and individuals who appreciate the blend of heritage, style, and quality. Each pair of Lucchese boots represents a legacy of craftsmanship, embodying the spirit of the American West and the enduring legacy of Salvatore Lucchese.
My beloved Lucchese boots have accompanied me on countless adventures throughout the years, and their weathered appearance is a testament to the memories we’ve shared. When I first laid eyes on them, they were in pristine condition, their impeccable craftsmanship evident in every stitch. Considering my tendency to be rough on footwear, it is truly remarkable that they have withstood the test of time.
In stark contrast to my experiences with other shoes, which seem to be replaced every six months due to deep holes and wear, Lucchese boots have proven themselves to be of exceptional quality. Their price tag is undoubtedly reflective of the superior craftsmanship and materials used in their construction. With that said, I am eager to delve deeper into the fascinating process behind the making of Lucchese boots, which showcases the brand’s commitment to excellence.
The video I have linked here provides a captivating glimpse into the meticulous artistry and attention to detail that goes into each pair of Lucchese boots. From selecting the finest leathers to employing time-honored techniques, every step of the manufacturing process is a testament to the brand’s unwavering dedication to creating footwear that embodies both style and durability.
As I watch the video, I am captivated by the skilled hands that expertly shape the leather, the precision of the stitching, and the artful embellishments that give each pair of Lucchese boots its distinctive character. The fusion of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology showcased in the video highlights the brand’s commitment to innovation while remaining true to its rich heritage.
It is evident that Lucchese boots are more than just footwear; they are works of art. The video emphasizes the brand’s meticulous attention to detail, from the precise measurement of the foot to the careful selection of the last, ensuring a custom fit that is unparalleled. It is this commitment to creating boots that not only look remarkable but also provide unparalleled comfort that sets Lucchese apart from the rest.
In conclusion, my personal experience with Lucchese boots has been nothing short of exceptional. Their endurance, even in the face of my rough treatment, speaks volumes about their superior craftsmanship. The video showcasing the making of Lucchese boots further reinforces my admiration for the brand, as it highlights the dedication, skill, and artistry that go into creating each pair. Lucchese boots are more than just footwear; they are a testament to the enduring legacy of craftsmanship and style that defines the brand.
And while we’re on the subject, here’s a video on how cowboy hats are made.
Photos are great because they freeze time and allow the moment to live for eternity. I’m incredibly fortunate to have over 100,000 pictures of my life that will enable me to fully appreciate my 30 years of existence.
I remember when I first discovered wallets. Leather trifold wallets with a pocket for your ID card and several pages to slide in photos of your family.
Wow! What we did before iPhones.
At the time, I was more interested in owning my first leather wallet than the money I should store.
Thankfully, my family pitched in to get me a wallet and put some money inside it. My cousin Brittany pointed that out to me because I was mesmerized by the genuine leather.
I’m sure I spent the $20-40 fast, as kids tend to do. I hope it at least went to something useful.
I remember I was into western wear before it was popular with my millennial peers. They preferred backward hats and untucked shirts. I, on the other hand, wore clothes beyond my age.
I was delighted and very much loved by my family. My young life was perfect. Boredom, worry, regret, and other negative sentiments came much later for me.
Every day was an adventure, and I enjoyed it to the fullest. Fishing was exhilarating, yet I never actually caught anything.
My early relationship with money was I wanted it solely to redeem it for a Gameboy or PlayStation 2 immediately. Other than that, it just looked cool.
Preppy as I was, I felt no shame. No need to fit in with the other kids; that desire came later. And to be perfectly honest, I never really did, not until college, and even then, not really.
I discovered public speaking at an early age. And even then, I got stage fright. I stared at my prepared notes to avoid seeing the crowd.
But when I spoke, I spoke with the same conviction as I do today. I had strong beliefs in integrity and wouldn’t compromise it for anyone.
I didn’t know it then, but I stood out and did my own thing. I always wanted to fit in, but not enough to change. I was very true to myself.
The above was one of my favorite photos then, and I still like it. I’m just beaming with confidence at that moment. The world was great!
But I inevitably discovered challenges.
Middle school was a rough period. I discovered bullies. And I was learning more about the world. There are fewer photos of me during my 6th and 7th-grade year. I remember them being more challenging times for me.
I eventually changed schools and became an accomplished video editor. I began my journey into videography early. By this time, I had put my brief rough patch with bullies behind me.
And as time went on, my computer skills made me modestly famous. At least intriguing to my peers.
I made many friends.
And I explored my chief interest, video production, further.
But part of growing up is discovering that there is always more that you want to achieve.
And for several years, I pursued those things.
Today, 30 years have passed, and I better understand myself and the world around me. I’m not as carefree as I used to be, but I’m happy and fully aware of the challenges and my ability to overcome them.
That’s my life up to this point in a nutshell. The photos remind me of this journey and how I got to it now.
Growing up as an only child, there were many board games that I had never played. Monopoly is one of them.
My first exposure to the game was at a summer youth camp. It was for a church I attended as a youngster. I saw the paper money and was immediately attracted to it. However, the other kids declined to play it because they said it was boring.
Decades later, I got the itch to buy the board game and play with my wife and any friends who visited us.
I found it to be quite enjoyable the first time. Because I made up the rules as we went along, and I nearly won.
Despite not having much experience counting cash, I volunteered to be a banker. This was very comical for all of us as I realized the ease of ApplePay had spoiled me.
I think the makers of Monopoly should make an ApplePay equivalent to make the game more accessible to the modern generation.
In other news, Kara has mastered the art of baked salmon. It’s one of my favorite dishes.
It’s so delicious! Very juicy, tender, and tasty! It’s fresh from H-E-B. Shameless plug! I don’t even work there.
My other favorite dish Kara makes is stir fry. She’s an incredible cook!
I’m still at the microwave and air fryer stage. But she’s mastered a full range of delicious dishes.
Twenty floors above downtown San Antonio rests a plate of freshly tossed salad and a cool glass of ice-cold water.
The view is serene.
From this view, the world seems small. And all its cares, even smaller.
The view of the city spanning out into the horizon reminds one of their places.
I opted for a burger, which I found very delicious. There are small tables, but they’re not intended for serious eating.
Still, I managed.
The restaurant sits on the top floor of the Thompson Hotel. A place where you can lounge for an extended period and take in the view. Great for a seemingly private conversation while staring at a quiet city.
True, you’re not alone. People surround you. This is a popular spot, after all, with limited space. But, everyone keeps to themselves. The views and conversation are enough to keep everyone in their world.
Reservations are needed to guarantee your spot. And time is limited to give others a chance. Even so, it’s for an extended period so that you’ll feel quite satisfied before needing to be prompted to leave.
From this height, the maze of streets seems incredibly easy to navigate. If you’re one to get lost downtown, this vantage point makes it difficult to imagine how you ever did.
Even with a time limit, we enjoyed 2 hours. After our meal, I took many photos in both daylight and twilight.
Eventually, this adventure had to end. Once on the ground, I was reminded how easy it is to become lost looking for our parked car.
We opted for a virtually empty parking garage. I want to go again. Perhaps next time, we will have the opportunity to sit with a different view.
The gray house in the middle is my favorite, if you’re wondering. I like how neat and proper this row of houses looks. They’re very aesthetically appealing.
I forgot which community they are in. Kara and I viewed many before deciding on a house we would eventually call home.
This burger was delicious. It had a short life. It was photographed and then mercilessly devoured nearly instantaneously.
Kara wanted to visit Elian, a luxurious development center with a hotel, restaurants, and luxury apartments. I’m glad that we got to experience it. It felt like I was in a European village.
At the time we went, this area was empty. It felt as if a train would come eventually. However, the tracks remained solely for decoration.
Kara always eats so well. Those are very healthy choices.
I can only guess what I was having; oh yes, it was delicious but not as healthy.
I’ve gotten in the habit of photographing nearly every meal I consume. It’s like a journal of food. One day I’ll look back and remember most of the meals I ate. What a great food life I had!
I walked downtown some. It was nice to see the city in a different light, literally.
I don’t go to gas stations at night because crime tends to be higher at that time, or so I believe. But walking by this one was a unique experience. So well lit and empty.
My favorite sight was an empty Alamo at night. I remember seeing a postcard of a night Alamo photo. Now I know how it was taken.
This must be the oldest Walgreens in existence. Probably not, but it’s much older than any I’ve ever seen. I wonder what made them change from using black to red signs?
Ginger isn’t supposed to be on the couch, but she looks happy there.
