Across the Globe: Reminiscin' the Texan Experience

I'm back to my beloved country! =) 

Back to work, to commuting, to breathing polluted air, and to slow internet connection.

Arghhh! these were basically the things I didn't miss a bit while in the States. 

A month is not enough for a grand vacay and my mind still is lazy to think about work! Still dreaming of a systematic and more efficient transportation system in Metro Manila just like in America. Hmm... will it ever happen?! I'm not losing hope!

We've been to almost everywhere in Texas, it is just too bad we're not able to see the 5-hour drive city of Dallas. But it's ok, there would definitely be a next time =D

Here are some of the places I've been and things I've experienced. Hope I will be able to blog about each of the city soon.

SAN ANTONIO. I was able to watch a Spurs game against Hawks at AT&T arena. The Spurs win!

Went up the Tower of the Americas to have a 360 view of downtown.

Visit the River Walk for a cruise. 

Fought my claustrophobia for a deep cave exploration down the Natural Bridge Cavern . 

Got amazed by the stories behind the walls of The Alamo. 

Went to see a Shamu and experience a bit of snow at Seaworld. 

My Aunts took me to North Star Mall, Ingram Mall, and at La Cantera for a shopping spree. Went grocery and chocolate hoarding at Walmart, HEB, Sam's Club, and Costco. Went dining at Buffets, at Chinese, American, Italian, and Mexican restaurants. Went bowling, kart racing, car washing, and jogging at the park. Went to watch Frozen and Thor 2 at movie house with my cousin, and see a Musical at the Dinner Theater. 

Went to visit Churches to pray for our dear ones too...

(St. Mary's, St. Brigid, San Fernando Church, Guadalupe Grotto)

OTHER PLACES. A friend tagged me as "the explorer" while in the States because my facebook was updated with travel photos.  Well, I was able to see wonderful places! Isn't it something you would love sharing with your family and friends?

NASA Space Center in Houston (and by the way, there's a Jollibee fastfood chain opened just recently at downtown area). 

Downtown Austin and The State Capitol

The Shopping Outlets of San Marcos.

The small German town of Fredericksburg where I experienced Ice skating for the first time and where I learned that Germans were actually the ones who first introduced the Christmas tree to the United States.

I also miss Buc-ees! The famous stop-over store for travelers.

But most of all, I was able to spend quality times with my dear Titas and Titos and cousins and experience Christmas with them. =). I miss them dearly and every moment spent with them was precious and memorable, even Lilly and Gem (pet dogs) made my stay worthwhile and fun! =)

I wish I could stay a bit longer...

Next time...

Perhaps...

Across the Globe: A Dream come True!

SAN ANTONIO. It's been four days since i got here. We've been so busy I had no time to blog until just now. 

While on my longest flight ever, I look back years ago when the young me dreams about stepping onto American soil. "One day" I said, looking at a plane passing above me.

In hours, I'll be living that dream.

Entering the US for the first time is not easy. You have to prepare for the long trip and tight security. From my port of entry, I was questioned by an officer about my purpose of entering the country. After a series of question-and-answers and checking of documents, my passport was then stamped "admitted". I giggled for so much joy! Just imagine if I was denied, I could have (in a way) ruined my cousin's wedding! 

My relatives picked me up at the airport welcoming me with warm hugs and kisses. 

This is it!

"WELCOME TO AMERICA!"

I arrived just in time for Thanksgiving dinner. Turkey on the table! =)

The next morning, we visit grandma's grave before we head to Austin. I met my cousins -The Bride (Racquel), Man of Honor (Randy), and the Bridesmaid (Michelle) for the first time but feels like we've always been seeing each other, they were friendly and accommodating. 

A dream come true indeed! 

Racquel surprises me with a small part in her wedding being an usher, I'm glad I was well-prepared for the occasion. =D

We were told to attend the rehearsal but Ty, Meesh, Matt and I got lost going circles looking for that Hog Eye St.! We just went on to the rehearsal dinner in a Chinese restaurant called Din Ho where Dino was introduced by Auntie Angie. 

AUSTIN. In Hyatt Hotel, my cousin Meesh and I shared a room but we didn't stay much longer to chat. In the morning of 30th, I dragged my Uncle down to stroll along the river just outside the hotel, there were joggers and cute squirrels running around. The temperature is cool and perfect for a stroll. 

We walked about a mile and up the bridge we found out there's a parade for children. I saw plenty of familiar characters like Disney Princesses, Star Wars, Minions, and my new boyfriend, Thor! Hah! There were also veterans driving those cool vintage cars, and some cheerdancers and little gymnasts too. 

By noon, we ran back up to the hotel to eat and prepare. Ms Lupita, our hired beautician, had done a great job in making us beautiful for the special occasion!

THE WEDDING DAY was a very fine day, thank goodness, because I was wearing a dress and it was a garden wedding. Tyrone made me a Cherry Vodka Sour for a drink and I had salmon, beans, rice, and bread on my plate. We danced, took pictures, and shared shots with all the bride's cousins.

I rarely enjoy weddings but I am delighted with this one especially the happy hour after the wedding. We get into a nearby bar, got drunk, met new friends, and had a foodtrip along this famous downtown street. It was a blast! 

COPPERAS COVE. On 1st of December, I got the chance to visit my cousin Ronnie's grave and see the Sanchez' home. 

Before we head back to San Antonio, we picked Gem and Lilly at Melody's Pet Ranch and now I'm sleepy. Yay!

Goodnytie! =)