Texas, Baby
February 24, 2009
Austin.
My daughter says y’all are good. She also told someone we met the other day that they sounded just like Sandy Cheeks. Anyone with kids who watch SpongeBob will find that humorous.
Also, I am not sure I will ever be able to say y’all seriously. Or the puzzling “all uh y’all”
I have not been meaning to drag this out, honestly. It’s just that moving is hard. There is so much to do. Like wear our Mardis Gras beads. (Something I don’t think I will find quite so cute on my daughter in 13 years when I wonder who she was flashing to get them thrown to her.)
And eat our Fat Tuesday pancakes.
That are free at IHOP.
Free pancakes that ended up costing me $40 when all was said and done. Damn they charge a lot for bacon.
Also, baseball season is in full swing. And let me just say that they take their sports very seriously here. There is no A for effort.
This suits my 8 yr old perfectly who last year, at age seven, said that he wasn’t playing baseball for fun. He has found his people. And they are a crazy, crazy bunch. And I like the mothers of the players on his team. When they invited us over for a meet and greet practice at their house and went for a liquor store run, well let’s just say I think I may have found some people. Not going to call them “my” people quite yet. But at the very least they don’t make me want to poke myself repeatedly in the eye with a fork.
Also I had to buy sunscreen today because I got a sunburn. In February. I know. You can hate me. I would too if I were you.
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Wow Chris! CT to TX is quite a jump! You have my admiration. We’re getting ready to move too, but ours is not nearly as far, as warm or as exciting…RI to NY and the Coast Guard is making us do it
Good luck with the move. It does take alot out of you and seems to last a good few months.
February 24th, 2009 at 8:47 pmI had a feeling it was either Fla. or Texas! Welcome to the south! Ya’ll!
February 24th, 2009 at 8:47 pmHey! I guessed it! I guessed Austin! Yea for me!
Was hubby transferred? I have never even BEEN to Texas. Wow! Texas! Congrats! I can’t wait to see pictures of the new house.
February 24th, 2009 at 8:49 pmI am a long time reader, but my first time to comment! Let me be the first to say “Welcome to Texas” and “Hi Ya’ll!” Austin is a great town…I’m in Dallas, but LOVE the Hill Country.
February 24th, 2009 at 8:50 pmAWSOME!!!!! the big “T”… i am sure you will make it home in no time!!! but why the move…?
February 24th, 2009 at 8:51 pmCongrats on your move
I was just about to guess Texas and you posted this!
Jonna
February 24th, 2009 at 8:51 pmWow Texas. The very best of luck to you all. Still dying to hear more!!
February 24th, 2009 at 8:54 pmI was thinking Texas. Will you ever reveal the why?
A sunburn in February. Pfft. It was 16 degrees where I live in NY today. And so windy. Wind is not good.
February 24th, 2009 at 8:56 pmSo you announced this literally five seconds after I realized the one photo was taken at Rudy’s BBQ in Round Rock, TX.
Congratulations!— and don’t leave us hanging on the whys, hows, and all the scoop on your new (hopefully fabulous) house!
February 24th, 2009 at 8:58 pmYou’ll be saying Y’all sooner than you know. We are headed back to Texas (Dallas area) after coming back to California for a year…originally from California, Texas was a culture shock but in a good way!! I hear Austin is really nice.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:01 pmWelcome to Austin!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:01 pmSo many questions left unanswered….like,how did you keep this secret from THE INTERNET?
I think I’ll have pancakes for dessert.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:02 pmI hope Ya’ll like it here.I love living in Dallas…the weather is awesome(well except for the tornado sirens the other day,that sucked) and one of these days you will be saying Ya’ll with ease….I grew up in Wa and spent the last 12 years in the south and I say Ya’ll now
I think Texans live and breathe sports..its soooo competitive it seems here! Enjoy it
February 24th, 2009 at 9:02 pmOh……….Texas! My dad’s only sibling, a sister, moved to Texas decades ago. We do not get to see them all that often, but when we do..YEEEHAWWW. My cousin, at the age of 10 or so came up north to be a junior bridesmaid in my wedding over 30 years ago. Her drawl was a hit at the wedding! Actually, I think the family had been there less than a year and drawl was unbelievable. Get ready…I need to hear your families drawl in a few months! Good luck!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:04 pmWelcome to Austin!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:04 pmooh hoorah!!! we were right!! it’s the rudy’s sign that did it. make sure you go to uchi sushi. and the salt lick. and, if you find a good sitter, go for drinks at gingerman.
and, btw, you’ll know you’re in the south for real when your daughter starts referring to your husband as “mama and them.” as in, the phone rings, and she says, “mama and them’s mowing the lawn, but i’m sure he’ll be in right quick if you’d like to hold, ma’am.”
February 24th, 2009 at 9:04 pmwhere in the lovely state of texas are you?
February 24th, 2009 at 9:07 pmI was right!! I had the same feeling, Florida or Texas - the star on the water tower gave it away for me. Welcome to the south y’all!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:08 pmCongrats on the move. It is never easy, but having moved more years than I had lived by 21 I can tell you it gets easier.
V. jealous of the sunburn. Boston was not that warm yesterday.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:08 pmYou think they take baseball seriously? Just wait until football season.
I knew it! The trees behind the little league field and along the railroad track, the signs on the side of the old building, and then the limestone put it over the top. Definitely Texas.
I miss Texas but not in August.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:08 pmHa! I knew it. *smile* I hope y’all love it there.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:10 pmAustin is a very fun city. I hope you post on what brought you there.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:10 pmI knew it!! I know TX when I see it.
Just might wind up back that way one of these days…I went to college in Georgetown, just north of Austin. Great small liberal arts college. I hope you are enjoying your warm weather and the southern hospitality.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:10 pmYou’ll love Texas, especially Austin. It is beautiful there and very eclectic. Welcome to Texas!!!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:11 pmWelcome to Texas!!! I had a feeling you were here, since the thermometer you posted matched mine in Dallas, but I was too chicken to post my guess. I was too afraid to hope…
We would love to be “your people”.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:12 pmWow, Texas! Hope you enjoy it. Is it too forward of me to ask if there was a reason behind the move?
February 24th, 2009 at 9:14 pmAustin is a great town! I have lots of family there, and they all say is terrfic and weird and crazy and awesome.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:16 pmYAY! I win
Welcome to one of my favorite cities on earth. I love living here.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:17 pmOh, moving is not so bad….Good thing you got to fly to your new home. I once moved from CA to VA - and had to drive all the way…with three kids - one a newborn. Just the joys of being a military family.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:18 pmChris,
I want to plead total ignorance here. I have looked up where you are now, but can you put up a map and show us where you have just moved from to where you are now.
I so hope they have a baseball team for young Miles too. !!!?
Why did you have to move? Will you get snow in the winter months at all.?
Do you already have a house picked out to move into or what?
Good Luck with settling into your New Life, I should imagine you will continue to Homeschool.?
Take Care , look forward to hearing from you soon.
Lots of Love Carolynn.
Hubby was impressed that there was still entries throughout the move. WELL DONE CHRIS YOU ARE TOTALLY AMAZING>
February 24th, 2009 at 9:19 pmHope you like Tx because you know… everything is bigger in Texas.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:19 pmSee, Austin is only about seven hours from me …. so I can officially bump up my stalker status from “online” to “nearly neighborly” !! I promise if you invite me for a visit I’ll teach you all the proper usages of “ya’ll”. I’m from Oklahoma, after all ………. we KNOW these things.
Congrats on the move and hope it is going smoothly.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:19 pmYou will say ya’ll, you will. Trust me. You won’t even realize it the first time you do it.
I’m ready to hear about your life in a new place.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:21 pmJust when I moved out of TX (where everything is affordable) and you are all move in. Enjoy Austin, I love the city, it’s beautiful and happening.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:21 pmWelcome to Texas!
I live in Austin and thought your pictures looked Texas-ish, but I’ve been a lurker and didn’t want to guess!! What part of the ATX do you live in? I live in Southwest Austin (aka Oak Hill or near the “Y”), very near a large baseball complex.
I hope you and your kids love this town!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:21 pmI knew it was TX but you closed your comments! I am completly jealous! It’s so frikin’ cold here. YOu have to give us details as to why you just up and moved without telling us!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:21 pmAustin was on our short list too. I’ve heard it’s great. (No state income tax in Texas!) But you won’t be braggin’ on the weather for THAT much longer.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:22 pmwow! how exciting! not to be picky, but we know the where… we still need the why! =)
February 24th, 2009 at 9:22 pmWelcome to Texas!! I live in Plano (suburb north of Dallas) but went to school in Austin and wish I could still live there - it is such a wonderful town. I was following your hints and thought maybe Texas, but figured it just looked that way to me since I live here. Can’t wait to hear the rest of your move story - I’ve forgotten (or never knew) exactly where “up North” y’all lived, but I can imagine what a change it is. Enjoy!!
PS - Yep, we do take our sports (and our drinking for that matter) VERY seriously, though baseball isn’t quite as sacred as football.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:24 pmWelcome, welcome, welcome! I saw that first photo and I KNEW it had to be my home state. I hope you will love Texas as much as I do. Some of the folks here are a little stereotypical, it’s true, but Austin is a great, diverse, fun, and beautiful city. Now even more so with all-a-y’all here!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:25 pmAlso, “all uh ya’ll” never seemed strange to me until you mentioned it!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:26 pmCongrats! I love Texas when I lived there! Always something to do there in Austin!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:27 pmOh my gosh Oh my gosh Oh my gosh the insurgents are in my state!!!! Yahoooo
Are you going to tell me which general area cause I might lose my mind stalking the Whole Foods.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:27 pmMy husband and I spent our first year of marriage in So Cal (we were farm kids from Minnesota) and the change in culture was quite interesting. From Lake Woebegone to Little Saigon. We entertained a move last year at this time (from MN to either PA, IL, or NC (husband was interviewing for a new job) and I was a wreck just thinking about all the stuff I’d have to do - find a job for me, a school for my daugtherr, daycare for my son, a new home, etc.
We’ve moved before, but not much with the kids & pets - kids have so much crap, I just want to break out in hives thinking about your move.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:27 pmWell, if ya have to live in Texas, Austin is the place! (JOKING! Just kidding, Texas-people!) Austin is a happening place, and definitely warmer than the northeast. Love the food there, too!
Hope you all settle into your new location. Moving is hard, especially with kids. Best of luck!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:30 pmThe bottom of that swing looks JUST like the bottom of my daughter’s swing in our back yard in Central Florida, but “Eleven” just didn’t look like Florida. Surprised to learn that kind of stuff grew on the bottom of swings in Texas. Thought it was too dry. Hope you get settled in fast!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:30 pmI was going to say it looked like you were here in TX. Welcome to the greatest place on earth!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:32 pmTwo words–”fire ants”. Be careful. The first bite is free if you’re allergic, then all hell. I went to grad school in Austin and LOVED it until I got that second fire ant bite. Spent the last year running from my house to the car to the school hoping nothing would get me and that my epi pen stayed cool.
If they still have the train ride in the park up on town lake definately take the kids–it’s awesome!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:38 pmTexas was my first guess, I should have stuck to it! I live in Houston but I looovvvee Austin. I hope you do to. Wait til you say you’re “fixin’” to do something. That’s a very Texan thing to say. Welcome! I’m glad yall are here.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:39 pmYay! Sun and warm weather! Baseball in the middle of winter! Sounds like a great move for you guys! I just turned on my electric blanket . . . my daughter and I are going to snuggle in and study for social studies (not fun), then read a new book (more fun). I hope you guys settle in quick! Best of luck.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:39 pmHere’s to meeting many more friendly people who sound like Sandy Cheeks!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:40 pmI cannot believe you’re in Austin. I was really guessing California. But, I should have known… my parents and brother and some friends are there. They have had no winter this year - it’s been dry, but nice. You are going to LOVE it there. And, can I just say that I cannot believe you’ve already found people? What the hell? We’ve been in our new town since August and I have not people. Of course, it’s colder than shit here and people are kind of hibernating, but still…
February 24th, 2009 at 9:42 pmOh Im so excited! I am a very long time lurker and who knows if you will even get around to reading this because I know you must be busy..But I live in Pflugerville/Hutto area..right beside Round Rock(where Ikea is). Anyhow, I am on baby #4 (all 4 and under) and I would love to meet up with you sometime.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:43 pmYes, we DEFINATELY take our sports serious here (I have lived here all my life so I def know my way around)Lol My 3 yr old boy is starting t-ball in June and they do NOT play around. Ha! If you need a friendly neighbor Im here : )
April–A.rodriguez524@yahoo.com
Welcome y’all…….we couldn’t wait for you to get here. You’re gonna fit right in.
Now you have to learn how to say “fixing to……” whenever you’re getting ready to do something/anything…….
I’m fixing to go to the store.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:46 pmI’m fixing to take the boys to baseball practice.
We’re fixing to go to church.
I’m fixing to pour me a glass of wine.
Welcome from Fort Worth. I just passed through Austin on Saturday, returning from a college visit in Kerrville. I knew immediately from the pictures you had to be in Texas.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:49 pmIt was 36 today here. Enjoy your new home!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:50 pmI knew it! I’m in Round Rock and love this area. You’ve come to a great place! Enjoy the weather!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:50 pmWelcome to the south! As an original southern girl, I know ya’ll are going to love it!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:51 pmWelcome to Texas Chris and family! You will love, love, love Austin!! You will never complain about being cold again, that’s for sure. Just for you, it’s going to be a wonderful 88 degrees on Friday
I’m in San Antonio and was transplanted here from CA 7 years ago and have grown to love Texas. Did you settle into a old home or a new one? Hope y’all settle in nicely!!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:51 pmI guessed Texas. You should love Austin. My sister in law lives in Fort Worth and we have been through Austin & it looked wonderful. I guess it will be hard to say yall when you come from up north but you will find that southern people are very welcoming. Whay the move?
February 24th, 2009 at 9:53 pmWow! That is quite the move! I’m excited to hear more about it. I bet you are exhausted.
February 24th, 2009 at 9:54 pmWelcome to Austin!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:55 pmIf you think they take baseball seriously, wait until football season. It’s best just to stay out of their way when that time comes!
Welcome to my part of the country! CT to TX must be a bit of a change. I’ll miss stories and pictures of your New England winters, but I bet that’s just me
February 24th, 2009 at 9:56 pmForget about letting us know… I just want to know how much lead time YOU had?
February 24th, 2009 at 9:56 pmCongrats on the move, I hope the change and adjustment go smoothly!
February 24th, 2009 at 9:58 pmWelcome to the south, all uh y’all. (plural form of y’all)
February 24th, 2009 at 10:03 pmWe lived in the DFW area for 15 years and have been here in AZ for almost 2 years. We’ll be back in the DFW area by year’s end transferring back with dh’s job. Welcome to Texas! I’m sure everyone will fit right in and the boys will be saying “Hook ‘em Horns” in no time.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:04 pmWelcome to The South, Baby. All Y’all should fit in real well–Baseball/Football/Sports loving nuts are all the rage down in that neck of the woods!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:05 pmSo, why did you move? Was it a sudden decision? Did you know about this for a while? Details! Details! Please?!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:08 pmLaughing about the taking the baseball seriously. They do it here in NC too. My son isn’t playing this year, he said it was too much pressure. Imagine, an 11 year old. Wise for his years.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:10 pmWelcome to Texas. I live in El Paso, which is not like any other part of Texas, but the weather here today was 86! I’ll be moving to that general area in April and am looking forward to experiencing the hill country. We’re all anxious to hear about the “why” now.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:12 pmI was right! HA! I hope you really enjoy it down here. The spring, fall, and winter are wonderful, but there will be a few months in the summer when you will wonder if you’ve moved straight to hell. Just find a body of water and you will be fine.
I hope y’all will do your part to keep Austin weird.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:13 pmI will second all the other Southerners saying “ya’ll gonna love it!”
Though here in Georgia, it was a freeeezing 51 degrees today!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:14 pmMy brother and his family live in Austin. It’s a lovely city. Although, you will soon be cursing the heat in the way that you used to curse the snow.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:17 pmAww..I know, it was the bears, huh?
Everytime I go outside at night, I think about the bears at your house. I think you were only a bit north of me in CT somewhere..so I’m always thinking there’s going to be one out there!! Good luck in Texas!!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:17 pmWell, welcome to Texas! It’s like it’s own little country out here, and you’ll be just fine!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:18 pmTwo words….Bat Colony. Just wait till spring and summer when you can go down to the river and watch the world’s largest urban bat colony fly out from under the bridge at dusk. Totally amazing.
Check out the Old Pecan Street Cafe when you get a chance, too. Oh, and there’s a totally awesome vegan bakery attached to a crazy fun toy store near campus.
I only spent one afternoon/evening there, but you can tell it left an impression on me….
Congrats on your move! Very exciting stuff! Hope your new house feels like home in no time!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:22 pmWelcome to Austin!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:24 pmWe’re super south, but life here revolves around sports, drinking, and eating. Y’all fit right in!
After seeing the railroad track, I knew Texas but couldn’t guess where. We live near Houston and my brother went to school in Austin. He stayed in the area for years so we all have a real fondness for it. If you can deal with the traffic it’s a great town! Live music everywhere, unique shops, the fun mix of state capitol and college town. After a while, you start saying things like “fixin to” and “all uh y’all” without even noticing you’re doing it. Unfortunately, around July you realize that the drawl is a product of the heat sapping ALL of the life out of you. But you do get to wear shorts and t-shirts in February.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:27 pmWelcome y’all!!
Welcome to Texas! I’m down here in San Antonio. We’re practically neighbors!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:29 pmhooray! i’m in san antonio which is so close to austin. are you near ikea? i love austin. congratulations on your move! you will love the weather!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:31 pmWhat you need to know to survive your first summer in Texas.
Have your home air conditioning serviced. Buy one of those windshield visor thingies. Park in the garage or under cover whenever possible. Have your car air conditioning serviced. Wear lots of insect repellant. Find a body of water in May. Submerge until October.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:31 pmJust do it, throw it out there. All y’all. It’s okay. It’ll start coming easier everytime you do it.
Welcome to TX All Y’all!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:32 pmAND you must go to the crepe trailer!
http://fliphappycrepes.com/
February 24th, 2009 at 10:33 pmAs a card-carrying, lifetime, seventh generation Southerner, lemme be among the first to welcome alla y’all down here.
’s aw’right, we only bite if you ask real nice ^.^
February 24th, 2009 at 10:33 pmWe moved from Minnesota to the Mississippi gulf coast last summer, and today my 5 year old started using “y’all” and “git” in normal conversation. It makes me laugh and cry a bit at the same time…
February 24th, 2009 at 10:36 pmI was right! I moved to Tucson once in February. Went from snow in Idaho, to 80 degrees and shorts. It felt very welcoming.
Hope you continue to discover wonderful things about your new home!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:37 pmHa, somehow I knew it. But then again, I’ve spent way too much time in Texas. Once you’ve been there, you know what it looks like. If you have to live in Texas, Austin is the best there is.
Can’t wait to hear more. Invest in bottled water, sunscreen and Air conditioners.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:42 pmI just KNEW you were in Tehas! Of course, I thought it was Houston though
Well, welcome! I used to live on the outskirts of Austin, and now live in Corpus Christi..love it here! Austin has SOO much culture and stuff to do(the traffic does suck though!). Anyways, have fun unpacking..moving..all that jazz. And yes, we found out too that they take ALL of their sports very seriously! My daughter plays soccer “not for fun either, thank you very much” she says 
February 24th, 2009 at 10:42 pmWelcome to Texas! I am in Houston, the winters here are great! The summers ….. well …… you won’t freeze to death ……. Sports rule ….. and, just think, if the kids to UT, how much money you can save on dormitory fees … they can live at home … no, wait …… it might be worth it for the dorm fees …….. hmmmmmm
Welcome to Texas!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:45 pmWell, I missed it…I was thinking California or the southeast. But yes, I am jealous. The picture of the thermometer that you showed said 73 degrees. That makes me extremely jealous, because it was almost 90 here today. I wish it was as cool as 73. I hope you enjoy your new home…sounds like you’re off to a good start with the baseball team.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:47 pmDarn! That was my second choice, once I saw the oil thingie. I still use y’all all the time, even though I’ve moved to Chicago. I refuse to acclimate to their language and use “at” at the end of every sentence. Don’t these people know that you don’t use a preposition at the end of a sentence?! Y’all is a great word - and remember everything is Coke, not pop or soda.
And we are obsessed with our sports in the South - I watch more football than my boyfriend! Just wait until football season starts. Good times will be had!
February 24th, 2009 at 10:49 pmas soon as i saw the picture of the water tower, i knew it was texas. from all of us here, a big texas HOWDY! you’ll never find people more genuine or food so artery-clogging.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:49 pmI was so close…I said Houston….mostly because I am in Houston ha ha
February 24th, 2009 at 10:51 pmI was right as well…Guessed Texas but not Austin. Enjoy your new home.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:57 pmHello Chris:
1st time I’ve ever commented (to anyone’s blog!!!). I should have done so yesterday when I guessed TEXAS?!?! I am sad no more pics of your “old” home though. My best friend is in Austin - actually Round Rock. If interested I can give you things to check out, etc.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:58 pmWell hello from Willow Park, TX - west of Fort Worth. Wow..what a change for all ya’ll!
I hope you are figuring out how fun Austin can be.
February 24th, 2009 at 10:59 pmWelcome to Texas, ya’ll! We’re in Houston, but we love Austin too. And you’re getting there at such a beautiful time - right before the bluebonnets!
Congrats and welcome!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:10 pmWelcome to the Promised Land, y’all! I was thinking Texas when I saw the sign about eating meat, but I thought 60 degrees was too cold - it was 90 here today in Midland (and that is just crazy, even for us!) Seriously, I hope you love it here, and you might as well get used to the crazy, arrogant pride we Texans have in our state. But, on the up-side, you can sell all your winter clothes on ebay - you will not need them in Austin - especially since all uh y’all are so “fortified” and think 40 degrees is warm. We had an exchange student for a year and it took her about 6 months to start saying y’all - it really is a handy word. Also, a handy phrase to learn for here in the south is “bless his heart” - it’s just a little quaint saying that you can tack onto the harshest of comments, and it makes it perfectly acceptable. For example, during baseball, you could say, “He couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn, bless his heart.” And if you think people are serious about baseball, wait till football season! Enjoy the weather now because in summer, you will be indoors more than you can imagine and thanking God for air-conditioning!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:11 pmStephanie Klein from the blog Greek Tragedy moved to Austin from NYC. From reading both your blogs, you both have kids, enjoy photography, enjoy a good drink and appreciate good food.
February 24th, 2009 at 11:13 pmOH! I forgot to mention - go get you some Mexican food! YUMMY! There are too many good tex-mex places there to mention - try them all. You’re going to love it!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:14 pmWe moved from New England to Florida about 6 years ago. It felt so right, and still does! I did tell my husband he was free to shoot me as soon as I started using the word “ya’ll”. FTR, none one of us uses that word yet!!
I hope you will be very happy in your new home.
February 24th, 2009 at 11:14 pmAll uh y’all is just the plural of y’all.
Wow! Texas?! Lots of homeschoolers there. Very homeschool-friendly laws. Hope you find a great group that shares your views. One of my old neighbors/school friends homeschools in Austin. Maybe you’ll meet her.
February 24th, 2009 at 11:14 pmWelcome to Texas. And yes, we do take our sports seriously (a little too at times)…
February 24th, 2009 at 11:16 pmHow exciting for you… cannot wait to hear more and see the new house…no more wood/pellet stove..no more ice storms…oh I bet you all are missing that…NOT.
so tell us… IS everything BIGGER in texas?
February 24th, 2009 at 11:16 pmWelcome, welcome, welcome to Austin. You will LOVE it here. You have totally found your people. Welcome!!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:27 pmI Love Austin. I just moved out of there less than a year ago, and I want to go back.
What I love most:
#1 The people and the city’s spirit. People there actually thought my wild animal children were actually cute.
#2 Central Market on Lamar: great organic food, cafe, playground, park, and free live music on the weekends. Grocery shopping was actually fun.
#3 Deep Eddy and Barton Springs: Cold springs that feel awesome especially during the hot summer months. There are also other free neighborhood pools around.
#4 The Children’s Museum
#5 Kerbey Lane: Great food, open all the time, affordable, and awesome pancakes you can’t miss out on.
I won’t miss the heat, grotesque roaches, nor the clouds of mosquitoes that follow you in clouds day or night. Still, I would move back in a heartbeat if it wasn’t for the fact that my California raised husband constantly whines about the heat, and my oldest cries at the thought of being away from his grandparents. At least I still own my house there.:(
Austin Rocks!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:28 pmWelcome to Texas. I live in Lubbock (North Texas). I love Austin. We visit often as my husband’s parents live there. The summer heat and humidity will surprise you!
This line may come to describe your kids: “I wasn’t born in Texas, but I got here as fast as I could.”
February 24th, 2009 at 11:29 pmI KNEW it was Texas. The black deer gave it away!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:30 pmTHAT IS SO COOL!!!!!! I am so happy that you have come to Texas! I went to university in Austin so know the city well, though it has changed a lot. Now we live in the DFW area. Welcome to TEXAS, y’all!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:38 pmMy Air Force pilot nephew was in San Antonio for 5 months. A favorite place for R&R was Fredericksburg, a neat little town with lots of wineries. My sister & brother-in-law went there on one of their visits and loved it. It appears to be only about 75 miles from Austin which is probably only a 50 minute drive…
February 24th, 2009 at 11:39 pmHow surreal - I just found your website not too long ago and love your honesty, your parenting style, and of course, your sense of humor.
Anyway, I live in Austin and belong to the rare species of native Austinites. It was a great place to grow up and is still a great place to raise children. The stress level is low- there is a communal commitment to being laid-back. The long lazy summers contribute, I think. And when it gets too hot - just head to Barton Springs or Deep Eddy!
I love this town and hope you and your family will too. Welcome!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:39 pmYay! Welcome to Austin! I think that you’ll really enjoy it here. I’m originally from PA and have lived here for about nine years. I think that you mentioned that you used to be vegetarian for a while at some point (I know that you’re not now), but you should check out Mother’s Cafe some time. It’s a great vegetarian restaurant that meat-eaters seem to like too. http://www.motherscafeaustin.com/
February 24th, 2009 at 11:40 pmit was friggin cold in CT today. i could also say my cheeks were pink but it was from wind burn.
February 24th, 2009 at 11:41 pmWow! Quite a move that you kept from most of us her intertetz!
And possible people already? You are one lucky girl!!!
Good luck getting ALL settled in. Y’all.
February 24th, 2009 at 11:44 pmWelcome to Texas!!!
Austin is an awesome place to live, there are SOOOOO many fantastic things to do outdoors with kids. Get a State Park Pass soon and visit some of the great state parks that are there around Austin.
Homeschooling in Texas is well supported here….let me know if you have any questions about it.
February 24th, 2009 at 11:46 pmOoh, my favorite photographer ever, Sarah Q, is in Austin. You should check her out when you’re ready for some family portraits. You’d appreciate her style. http://www.sarah-q.com
February 24th, 2009 at 11:46 pmSo, who guessed it first?
Cuz, I was quite proud of myself in guessing Austin. Seriously… I could get a job at the F.B.I using my new Google skills.
(it was the “real People eat meat” sign that had me googling Texas, while thinking of Oprah at the same time)
February 24th, 2009 at 11:48 pmHA! I was right! So are you going to fill us in on how you ended up in Texas?
February 24th, 2009 at 11:48 pmLongtime reader saying welcome to Austin! I was in Whole Foods on Monday - to think, I could have run into you there! You’re going to love it here, but as others have mentioned, brace yourself for the summer heat! (and by summer, I mean May - October!)
February 24th, 2009 at 11:53 pmI knew it! Water towers, high temps and baseball. Had to be Texas. I love, love, love, Austin! I used to live in South Texas (McAllen) and Austin was my favorite getaway.
February 24th, 2009 at 11:54 pmGet yourself to Central Market! It makes Whole Foods look like a Walmart. Seriously! You will love Texas- best people in the country. Congrats!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:56 pmWelcome to Texas! Love your blog, but have never commented before. I’m in Ft. Worth!
February 24th, 2009 at 11:59 pmI’m just going to echo everyone else and say HOLY COW. Just..holy. cow.
February 25th, 2009 at 12:06 amDid you husband get transferred or something? Y’all (hehe) decide to move for sport-related reasons?
Jeepers! Can’t wait to hear the story!!
I knew you were in the South somewhere! Welcome to Texas! I lived in Austin for 4 years and sometimes wish I were back there (only reason I’m not is so we can be closer to family). Go to a restaurant called Hula Hut. You can thank me later for that wisdom.
And oh yes, Texans take their sports very seriously. OMG, FOOTBALL
February 25th, 2009 at 12:10 amWhoops, sorry, accidently hit submit too soon.
Anyway, FOOTBALL. It is a HUGE deal in Texas. Your sons will love that.
February 25th, 2009 at 12:12 amI knew it! (I hoped it was HOuston though). LOVE Austin, you guys will have such a fun time, and anytime you want to do a get together, let us all know. Of course, you know you have to hit Central Market too (since you went to Whoel Foods), and Cliff’s, and Amy’s, Kerbey Lane, Texadelphia, Guero’s, and Salt Lick, and Fredricksburg, and…oh yeah, how did you end up coming to Texas? Nevermind, We’re glad you’re here. y’all stay awhile you hear?!
February 25th, 2009 at 12:12 amlol I am laughing as when I looked at all the pictures and put the written clues together, biggest being the weather, I thought, hmm sounds like Texas. But then I thought, nahh I can’t see them living in Texas. But there ya go!
Will you let us in on the last few weeks soon? I am dying to know how it came about, etc
This also from me who doesn’t even live in the great USA
February 25th, 2009 at 12:20 amWelcome to Austin! I recognized my town as soon as the Rexall Drug sign showed up. Baseball is serious but wait until football starts in the fall, then you’ll see how serious we take our sports! Maybe I’ll see you at the HEB!
February 25th, 2009 at 12:31 amwow, what took you there?
February 25th, 2009 at 12:35 amI was right!!!!!
I moved from Vermont to Dallas. Much different but good too.
February 25th, 2009 at 12:37 amWow - your cool factor has just gone way up! Austin is a pretty hip-happenin’ place.
February 25th, 2009 at 12:39 amOh, and some things you must know about immediately. Central Market. Must visit and San Marcos. It’s the outlet mall of the gods. Oh, and the Tex-Mex. Whine. How I miss the Tex-Mex!
P.S. Cockroaches can fly.
February 25th, 2009 at 12:49 amI am enough of a nerd to be all, OMGZ you’re closer to Susan!!
February 25th, 2009 at 12:49 amWow, Austin. How come?
Well, at least now we’re neighborhoods - state-wise anyways.
February 25th, 2009 at 1:00 amI totally agree with NoMasNinos — Our daughter was born there in 2000. Was a great city (except for the heat) We now live in Sydney. Loved all the things she lists and I only missed Central Market, Z’Tejas, Eeyore’s birthday party and Antonios when we moved. Enjoy. Its a great place to raise kids, especially sporty kids.
February 25th, 2009 at 1:05 amIt is so not fair that you get to live in Austin while I have to live in Dallas. But perhaps I’ll see you at SXSW? I plan on stalking Heather and Susan.
February 25th, 2009 at 1:11 amPS. Forget “y’all” and “all y’all.” Once you start saying you’re “fixin’ to” do anything, you will truly belong in these parts.
February 25th, 2009 at 1:14 amhey ! I was right - it ws the real people eat meat thing - austin is funky , smart, great food, music great art - - its the best part of texas - my husband wants to know if you sold your house in CT ( as , I think, a way of avoiding fixing up THIS one) ,, but , he would also like to make sure that your husband ’s finger bit from making the benches ( ?) in the dining area - has also made the move to TX with you… lol
( at least at my house!)
how in gods holy name do you organize, placate AND move 7 children? Well, actually 8, because we all know about husbands..
so happy for you —-austin ROCKS - great shopping - all the things you didnt like about the backwater of CT - austin is HIP — are you stil going to homeschool?
February 25th, 2009 at 1:24 amregardless - now you ARE closer to susan now!!!!!
I guessed right…that’s a miracle in itself. I feel like I miss you already…but really, I’ve never layed (laid??) eyes on you so it’s not like I’ll never see you again. Sorry, it’s late…I should probably go to bed. Hope you love Texas!
February 25th, 2009 at 1:25 amWoah, Texas. That’s a huge change. Congratulations on being able to post all the way thru the move. Have you found your house yet or is that the next big thing you’ll be working on?
February 25th, 2009 at 1:30 amRudy’s, you HAVE to go to Rudy’s soon. Rudy’s and Chuy’s, we go there every time we visit my son. He’s in Phluggerville. When they moved to Texas 10 years ago they SWORE they weren’t going to “BE” Texan, it didn’t last. The kids talk like locals now, well they are actually……. They even bought cowboy boots awhile back.
February 25th, 2009 at 1:42 amI guessed right (the comments were closed though). My question though is why the move and why no mention of it before?
February 25th, 2009 at 1:42 amTexas! I was way off. Why couldn’t you move to Utah by me?! Yes, I was totally laughing as I typed that! ;o)
February 25th, 2009 at 1:53 amI hope this is a happy move. The weather alone sounds like reason enough. Happy Unpacking!
Doesn’t ANYONE wonder whether this is not a move but the visit mentioned back about a month ago that was to have been in about a month….?
February 25th, 2009 at 2:06 amNot to be cynical and all, but…I dunno- something is fishy…maybe….
oh well…
Long time lurker
OMG are you living in Austin? (Jumps up and down) I visited Austin twice and loved it and still find myself saying y’all.
February 25th, 2009 at 2:43 amWelcome to Texas! I have been reading for along time but I think this is my first time to actually post
I am near Beaumont (SE Texas) They have some great baseball in Roundrock you are going to LOVE it - At least the boys will (laugh) glad to have you in Texas - Looking forward to reading your thoughts on the Lone Star State. Keep in touch.
February 25th, 2009 at 2:46 amI knew you were in Texas..the picture with the cows and the train looks like my backyard!
February 25th, 2009 at 2:48 amWelcome to our world. My younger son lives in Austin, my older in San Antonio.
February 25th, 2009 at 2:51 amYa’ll come, ya hear? Couldn’t resist that last one, that is the proper way to say it.
After being a Yahnkee mah whole life…. I lived in Texas for 8 years.
Important Safety Tips:
Y’all is singular
All Y’all is plural.
Children call adults by the first name, only preceeded with “Miss” or “Mr.” as in “Miss Chris” or “Mr Joe”
They also ALWAYS say ‘YES Ma’am’ or ‘No Ma’am’.
Nothing on this planet beats Texas BlueBonnets in March.
Everything IS bigger and better in Texas… just ask a Texan.
And quite honestly, just about the best 8 years of my life.
Can’t wait to hear about your new digs.
February 25th, 2009 at 3:07 amHow long have you known about this? My feelings are almost hurt that you wouldn’t share such a personal life decision with myself and thousands of other readers you’ve never met.
Yay warm weather!
February 25th, 2009 at 4:19 amAwesome, I knew it! Welcome to Austin =) I’ve been (lurking) following your blog since it was the Big Yellow House and Miles was just a baby. I’m a grad student at UT after having just finished up my undergrad at UT as well- what can I say, I bleed burnt orange! There’s so much to do here and the best part is what a dramatic departure the weather is from CT. That’s not to say we don’t have our share of effed up weather… Texas is probably the only place in the world where you turn both the heat and a/c on in the same day.
Anyway, there’s so much to see/eat/do here, I hope you guys settle into your routine soon and start discovering everything Texas Hill Country has to offer. =) So glad you’re here!
P.S. Traffic sucks ass. On both I-35 AND MoPac (Loop 1), although MoPac is slightly better. We have the crazy drivers from Dallas and speed demons from Houston mixed in with the slow-as-hell/stoned Austin drivers and all of them combined with sporadic but always constant construction… makes for one huge clusterf*** on the roads.
February 25th, 2009 at 4:29 amYa’ll will be saying “ya’ll, “all uh ya’ll”, “ya’lls” and “all uh ya’ll’s” in no time flat. Do they also say “y’uns” there? (sometimes pronounced “you’uns” or “ye’uns”)
February 25th, 2009 at 5:11 amWell, I had guessed Houston, but Austin has a lot more character. Wish I was still in Texas so I could come stalk, I mean visit you.
Once you get the kiddos settled in, take yourself to the Spa at Austin Crossings. It is the most relaxing place on earth, and you deserve it. (Anyone who moves across country deserves a spa treatment. Anyone who does it with children deserves an entire day. At least.) Seriously, the folk there are wonderful.
Here’s hoping you find your people and make it HOME. And, of course, blog about it.
February 25th, 2009 at 5:23 amI knew it!!! Welcome to Austin, from a very homesick Texan currently living in China. I guess you don’t really want to publish it, but what brought you here and where are you living? We miss Austin desperately and can’t wait to get home. It will be very different from the NE, but I bet you will love it. Oh, and the picture of Whole Foods totally gave it away to us Austinites.
You need to get yourself to Chuy’s or Maudie’s for Tex-Mex. You will be in heaven.
Welcome, y’all!
February 25th, 2009 at 5:38 amAustin? I’m so jealous. I really liked the area when I visited my DH when he was stationed near there. I think it’s down near Houston, but y’all need to visit the Messina Hof winery. We have several bottles of their wines.
February 25th, 2009 at 7:01 amI guessed Texas, but would have NEVER been able to guess which part of it! So . . no more black bears and weasels. Instead, you get exceptionally large and bitey insects and arachnids and maybe some poison snakes. But no more snow, either. I think for you, the trade-off will work!
February 25th, 2009 at 7:45 amWelcome! We’re recent transplants from the Northeast too. (By the way, I could tell it was Texas from the squatty trees. I do miss the trees & seasons in the NE.) While I doubt I’ll ever consider myself “Texan” I must say, Texas has treated us pretty kindly. I’m lovin’ the ability to homeschool without reporting and the weather totally does not suck.
February 25th, 2009 at 8:09 amHope you all get settled in soon!
I sincerely hope you’re going to share the why behind this all and I hope you’ll share photos of the new homestead.
Good luck to you all!
February 25th, 2009 at 8:11 amcongrats to y’all. It is 14 in torrington and as i grew up in fla i must say that your post has brought me to tears
literally enjoy the south and all it has to offer
we miss you up north but look forward to your new adventure.
ps where is oldest please snap and post a photo so we know he is still not holding the wall up in CT Little Ernie says GO COWBOYS
February 25th, 2009 at 8:11 amWell, at least you’re in the best part of Texas. You’ve traded bears for fire ants and copperheads and rattlesnakes…it’s a beautiful time of year now, just wait til July when a walk to your car makes you sweaty enough for a shower…I hope you have a swimming pool at the new house.
February 25th, 2009 at 8:11 amBut…why? Well, you can always move back.
February 25th, 2009 at 8:16 amWow - we had no chance of guessing over here in Oz, hot weather in Feb is quite normal for us and the landscapes are all Northern hemisphere. I gather this is a big-haul move. Hope y’all settle in well and you don’t miss the river too much.
February 25th, 2009 at 8:22 amChris - I almost changed my guess yesterday - First I’d guessed Gulf Coast of FLA but then when I saw the STAR on the water tower and the cows, I almost revised!!
I hope the move went smoothly and you and your family are getting adjusted. I have friends in Austin who LOVE it there.
Thinking of you!
February 25th, 2009 at 8:28 amI am so glad you are in Austin. You will find a number of groups of “your people.” The Zilker Kite Festival is this Sunday and is free, fun, and a great intro to Austin. Bring a kite and a football or frisbee for the older boys, and play on the shores of Lake Travis. Go to Freddy’s Place or the downtown Whole Foods afterwards and celebrate your new adventure. If anyone is sour about this move, a trip to the Dell Diamond, Old Settlers Sports complex, skate park, or Rock n’ River should do the trick. Also promises of Schlitterbaun and Fiesta Texas/Sea World will go far.
February 25th, 2009 at 8:34 amI knew it was Texas an not Chicago! All those who guessed Chicago were off their rockers! You were in a warmer climate! I knew it!
February 25th, 2009 at 8:39 amNot to worry - y’all will learn to say “y’all” and “fixin’ to” in no time at all!
February 25th, 2009 at 8:59 amYou’re gonna love Austin! Next item for the agenda (after, you know, get unpacked): find a sitter for the kids and spend a weekend in the hill country with your husband - so fun!
February 25th, 2009 at 9:10 amNOw I feel badly because I guessed Texas at one point along with the expression “oh my god, not Texas, I hope” or something along those lines. I used to live there, was forced in my teens but Austin is different–so good for you! Enjoy. If I could have my TX experience to live over again, I would choose Austin!!
February 25th, 2009 at 9:12 amI was going to guess Houston (where I am), but Austin is good too.
Welcome to Texas.
If you think the baseball people are serious…just wait until you meet the football people.
February 25th, 2009 at 9:27 amWelcome Yall!!! Yes its warm here. Its great now but just wait for the summer and the humidity.. Ughh.. I think I stay inside more during the summer than the winter. And yes sports are big here. Parents get a bit too emotional and involved sometimes with kids sports.
February 25th, 2009 at 9:30 amWell Welcome! I’m in SA (San Antonio), you will love Austin. We go there all the time for Ikea!
February 25th, 2009 at 9:36 amYep.. hehhe.. I love me a challenge.. thanks!
February 25th, 2009 at 9:39 amFigured it had to be somewhere in the south; the star on the water tower sealed it for me…HAD to be Texas. I hope you all LOVE it and feel like it’s home very soon. I have lived in Florida for the past 15 years and love it. I tell my northern friends they have to stay indoors all winter and we Floridians have to stay indoors all summer…at least in August, unless you head to the pool, beach or lake. But we think it’s worth it. ALL THE BEST!!
February 25th, 2009 at 9:40 amWelcome to Texas!!! I love it here.
Find a good pest control guy and buy into the plan - you’ll be glad you did
February 25th, 2009 at 9:40 amWelcome to Texas! I’ve lived in the Dallas-Fort Worth area my whole 29 years of life. Love it.
February 25th, 2009 at 9:54 amCongrats on the big move! I moved NY to GA in 5th grade, but it took going to college in Southwest Virginia to finally say “y’all” and listen to country music.
I have heard that Austin is super-cool.
It’s funny people are mentioning the squatty trees. We considered moving to Arizona. My husband is a nature boy and asked the realtor, “What are those shrubs?” The relator said, “We call those trees.”
February 25th, 2009 at 10:09 amAh shucks, my guess was Dallas. At least I had the correct state. The Esso sign, Rexall sign, cattle and big star on the water tower at least go me to Texas.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:11 amJust wait Chris, come fall you will be missing the leaves and all of the vibrant colors.
Chris says: But I can go VISIT them. AND not have to rake them all up.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:22 amI knew it! I knew it was Austin!
Congrats to you and the family!!
February 25th, 2009 at 10:24 amWelcome to Texas. We are glad to have y’all
Austin is a wonderful place but be prepared for the hot summers here. And yes you can get a sunburn in Feb.
If you think we are very serious about baseball just wait until football season arrives;o)
February 25th, 2009 at 10:28 amWelcome to the South, although I don’t know if Austin can really be called the South, techninally, but welcome. Depending on how long you are down here, you just might surprise yourself with the accent.
And, HEY, I have lived in New Orleans all my life and never once flashed anyone for plastic beads. That is something drunk visitors do and since she is no longer a visitor, she will be fine.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:29 amI’m so happy to hear that you are all there, somewhat settled, and are safe and sound.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:37 amxoxo
steph
Okay, so you get warm weather, Ikea, Whole Foods, and no more cold, icy weather. But are you gonna have a Target to shop at? I hope so. Target is great retail therapy, as I am sure ya know.
Can’t wait to hear more about all of this. You are one brave woman. And isn’t Austin known for its hip musical scene, Austin City Limits, and all? Blessings to you and your beautiful family. Sounds so exciting….
February 25th, 2009 at 10:39 amKinda jealous back here in the cold Midwest……but have fun! And I know what you mean about IHOP…how does free food end up costing so much?
February 25th, 2009 at 10:41 amWhere’s my prize? I guessed Austin, Texas on the first post of clues.
I really am AMAZING.
And from an implant in New Orleanian, let me say, welcome to the South.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:52 amWelcome to Austin! All oh y’all are gonna love it here!
Here’re my pointers for the noreasterners who wisely move here:
1. Drink a lot of fluids in the Summer, and not just beer and wine. You need water and/or gatorade. You need this even if you aren’t exercising.
2. Definitely visit the Farmer’s market at 4th & Guadalupe on Saturday morning. It’s not huge, but nice and Austiny.
3. You will lose your tolerance for the cold sooner than you will gain a tolerance for the heat. Just be prepared.
February 25th, 2009 at 10:53 amWe head down to Austin every fall (fall. . . Hah! It’s near 100 degrees then) for the Austin City Limits Music Festival. Hope to see you there!
You are going to LOVE Austin! My family lives in that area which is why I recognized it, my sister lives in Round Rock.
February 25th, 2009 at 11:09 amCongrats on your move!! Do you have a house there already? Won’t you now be closer to Susan??
February 25th, 2009 at 11:11 amIf you’re not comfortable with “all uh y’all” you could always just use “y’all guys”. Welcome to the South. Hope y’all enjoy the warmth and the Southern hospitality. There’s no place quite like the South in the whole world.
February 25th, 2009 at 11:11 amOh, and BTW you’ll fit right in. The Austin motto is “keep Austin weird” I’m sure the kids are willing and eager to help with that. I can just see the whole tribe canoeing on Town Lake.
February 25th, 2009 at 11:22 amSo are you going to share why you moved? Or why you kept it a secret? That seems like a huge life change for everyone.
February 25th, 2009 at 11:27 amI have read your blog for years…and always loved seeing the pictures of the snow, but you will love Austin! I live in Texas but 6 hours from Austin…my cousin and her family live there and it is a really neat place. I could tell by the pictures of the trees you were in Texas. Welcome to Texas y’all!!
February 25th, 2009 at 11:28 amYay Texas!!! I was totally off on all my guesses. Hoorah for you guys!!!
February 25th, 2009 at 11:32 amI knew it!! I moved from PA to TX (Houston not Austin, unfortunately) and could just tell by your clues…the temperature, blue sky, the look of the swingset and the fence. All of TX looks like that. Stuck in Houston b/c of hubby’s job but man do we love Austin! And in 8 years here I still haven’t transitioned from ‘you guys’ to ‘ya’ll’. Brace yourself for the summer…
February 25th, 2009 at 11:36 amI forgot to include my favorite food recommendation: Taco Xpress. They’re made with fresh ingredients, absolutely scrumptious, and dirt CHEAP. The first time we were there, we stood in line with the Governor.
Chris says: We had their food for lunch today!
February 25th, 2009 at 11:37 amWow! Just Wow! You really have NO EXCUSE to visit now.
Congratulations? Have a good time! And I know a little someone on the coast who is an awesome hostess.
Chris says: I’m on my way…
February 25th, 2009 at 11:37 amDo you like the heat? Because you’re going to be getting it, girl.
February 25th, 2009 at 11:40 amWe lived in Texas for about six months once, 10 months another time (military). I give you about six months until you’re saying “fixing to” do everything. Your kids less.
We visited Fredericksburg once, too — it was quaint. But oh the peaches! One place I highly recommend is the SCHLITTERBAHN! in New Braunfels. (After you learn how to swallow “New Braunfels” the Texan way.) Awesome, awesome, waterpark, and river tubing.
Oh and check out Flip Happy Crepes (operating out of a silverstream). Saw them on the food channel and they are well worth the trip to town…
February 25th, 2009 at 11:42 amI thought it was Texas! As an almost-lifelong resident, I’m terribly biased, but I think it’s a great place to be, esp. Austin. Welcome!
February 25th, 2009 at 11:43 amWelcome to Texas! I’m in Austin too, well just south of it. We love it here! Traffic in RR really bites though. I can’t wait to read your first heat-gripe post this summer.
But seriously, this is a great place to raise kids!!
February 25th, 2009 at 11:50 amThis is so weird. We all care about you so much and most of us don’t even “know” you but somehow feel that we do. So much so that I had a dream about you last night. Yeah. We talked a lot. I have no memory of what it was that we discussed. But that is the very first time I have ever dreamed about someone in cyberspace. Somehow needing to hear all the answers that your faithful readers have posed questions to in the above comments!
February 25th, 2009 at 12:08 pmI said Texas and I was right!! We’re not neighbors though
I live in Houston.
February 25th, 2009 at 12:32 pmWelcome to the South!
February 25th, 2009 at 12:47 pmWelcome to Austin! It is a great foodie town with lots of fun things for kids and families! You will enjoy it here!
February 25th, 2009 at 1:04 pmI was hoping for California until I saw the Real People Eat Meat sign. That sign wouldn’t survive long here, so I knew it was somewhere in Texas. I cannot wait to hear the story behind this.
February 25th, 2009 at 1:08 pmWelcome to the south! (Midwest? Where are we, technically anyway?)
I’m up north, in Oklahoma, and I first recognized my kids’ drawl when, as a homeschooler, I was teaching them to read and BOTH of them sounded out the word
“can” as, “C. Aaaa. Nnnn. *beat* Ca-yun!”
How does the friendliness in Texas compare to back East? I hope you love it here! Do your kids miss the snow? Are you going to tell us the whole story once you get settled?
February 25th, 2009 at 1:42 pmI could never wrap my mind around saying the word “wicked” when I lived in MA for four years. And I’ve never heard my husband say “y’all” now that we’ve lived in the South for the last couple of years. Just don’t worry about it. If you ever try to force it, it will just come out as weird or condescending
February 25th, 2009 at 2:02 pmI can’t believe you just finished your re-model and you decide to move. Are you crazy woman?!?!?!
February 25th, 2009 at 2:03 pmAnother Texan welcoming you here. I’m in a small town between Dallas and Fort Worth. And what everyone else said about Austin being awesome. Can’t wait to hear what you have to say about the summer weather.
February 25th, 2009 at 2:07 pmI’m DFW, but when I visited Austin last year, I *loved* it! The (lack of) city planning and architecture reminded me so much of New England. Houses with porches and painted different colors… Stores next to houses next to restaurants next to a university…you know. Or you will. There’s this 3-story independent bookstore near campus that you HAVE to go to. You’ll love it. Will find them name for ya…
February 25th, 2009 at 2:23 pmWelcome to Texas! If you are out one day enjoying a lovely time with your family and a crazy woman comes up screaming about how much she loves your blog, it is probably me.
February 25th, 2009 at 2:38 pmI swore I would never say y’all, but that Texas pride thing is contagious. It took me a few years of living in SA, but now I embrace y’all (but still can’t make myself spit out ‘all uh y’all’).
Aha! My town! Welcome!
A few predictions:
1. You will love the winter here.
2. Your children will whine about there not being any snow.
3. You will be disgruntled by the drivers who forget how to drive in the rain, and down right angered by the fact that a little ice shuts down the whole city.
4. We will get to hear about how hot it is in the Summer instead of how cold it is in the Winter. Warning: it is broiling.
5. Overall, I think you will love it, in spite of the heat. Austin has a way of making you forget the heat.
6. You will do at least one post about Barton Springs.
7. You might get to experience the threat of a tornado.
8. You will soon understand the phrase “Hook’em”.
I could probably think of a dozen others. It will be interesting to see what you think of it all!
mere
February 25th, 2009 at 2:44 pmWelcome to Texas! I live in Dallas but I went to grad school in Austin and still have several friends (and relatives) there. It’s a great city and I hope all uh ya’ll are able to settle in quickly!
February 25th, 2009 at 3:24 pmHow exciting!!!! I’ve always wanted to move to Texas, but my hubby just won’t do it.
ENJOY!!!!!
February 25th, 2009 at 3:30 pmAustin is great, we just visited some friends there. Your kids will love it
February 25th, 2009 at 3:38 pmI second Jennifer’s comment.
February 25th, 2009 at 4:01 pmWelcome to Texas! I too caught Texas, from the Southwest Airlines flight and the railroad tracks but couldn’t quite place where. You’ll love Austin- just be careful, one place should not have that much great food easily accessible(steer clear of Roundrock Donuts- pure delicious evil). Hope your transition is an easy one.
February 25th, 2009 at 4:17 pmI’ve been a Midwesterner ALL my life (with some varied states within that region–YAWN), so moving to Texas seems as foreign to me as moving to Europe. Even experiencing warm weather in February seems mind-boggling (I know, my world is small).
It sounds like a great adventure, though. After reading all these comments, the TV show “Friday Night Lights” is probably more realistic than I thought. Even if you say the words, “All-y’all”, if you actually say it in blog-world, it will stun this Midwesterner!
February 25th, 2009 at 4:47 pmwe needed sun screen the other day..life in FL!
February 25th, 2009 at 5:05 pmxoxo
ronee
we dream of moving to TX.
Hope everything contnues to go well.
February 25th, 2009 at 5:17 pmWelcome to town! I do hope you love it. We have a great children’s museum. Freddie’s is a great place for food that has live music and an area for the kids to play. There are really a million things to do here and I hope you enjoy discovering them all!
February 25th, 2009 at 8:02 pmWelcome to Austin… you’ll love it here!!
February 25th, 2009 at 10:25 pmI commented on the last post not knowing you had posted this one. I read most recent and back in my google reader. So then when I came here and saw indeed it was Texas I was kinda proud of myself.
Do you want to know how I knew it was Texas from your picture and post of the moving truck arriving.
Three things:
1. No Basement
2. The Brick on the Front of the House
3. The roof lines behind the truck
Can I tell you how much my heart and soul belong in Texas and it took everything for me not to move to Austin or Dallas at least three times.
When I come back to Austin we will finally have to meet! I will bring liquor and chocolate chip cookies!
February 25th, 2009 at 11:26 pmIt looks like others may have touched on this, but check out Central Market. It’s similar to Whole Foods, but I think a little cheaper.
February 26th, 2009 at 12:59 amAlso musts for summer…tubing the river at San Marcos and going to Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels (SO much fun, but go earlier in the summer for less lines).
And I’d like my prize, pleae
I guess Austin first!
February 26th, 2009 at 7:57 amYay me. Yay, you, Chris! It’s a great town. Check out my friend’s art there: http://www.robincheers.com
Welcome from your neighbor up North! Now we’ll be rivals in Big 12 sports…
February 26th, 2009 at 1:27 pmAs well as I know Austin, I might have only guessed from the water tower, and the whole foods bag. - And possibly the brick porch when the moving van arrives…
I hated Austin when we first got there, being newly married and coming from WAY up North. I grew to love it - and Deep Eddy, and Central Market (!!!) and Amy’s Ice Cream, and the Hyde Park Area - Oh, there is TOO TOO much to mention. You will LOVE it (but for the traffic.)
We no longer live there - I look forward to reading about your adventures there. Oh, and yeah - no basement was weird to me too, especially as many tornadoes as Texas has - we did have a storm shelter when living in West Texas though. The nice thing about Austin - is that many things can be stored outdoors.
February 26th, 2009 at 3:06 pmGo see rollerderby! Trust me, you’re in the best state for it!
February 26th, 2009 at 5:25 pmWhoo hoo! Welcome to the South land baby! As a native Georgian, “Welcome y’all!”
February 26th, 2009 at 5:47 pmWelcome to Texas, y’all! I am in Dallas but go to Houston a lot for family and Austin a lot to “play”! Can’t wait to hear the whole story and to meet up sometime now that you are in the Deep South, baby.
We do take our sports, our liquor runs and our hair very seriously. Just so you know.
February 26th, 2009 at 8:01 pmWelcome to Texas! We’re glad y’all are here
February 27th, 2009 at 12:13 amwelcome to texas! we moved to fort worth eight years ago from the mid-west and love it. hope you and your family learn to love texas, too!!
February 28th, 2009 at 5:08 pmCongrats, Chris! Texas is awesome, and, though I’m from Dallas and was never in Austin much, I hear Austin is really cool, different. I would recommend getting The Yankee Chick’s Survival Guide to Texas. Today. Immediately. It is hilarious, you will no doubt be able to identify, and it will help you understand some of the weird quirkiness about our state
March 1st, 2009 at 10:30 amWelcome to Texas yall! We’re just tickled to have ya!
P.S. We have fall in Texas too, by the way.
March 2nd, 2009 at 4:37 pmAustin rocks! The downtown Whole Foods is the best - wish it was in my neighborhood! Very different from Connecticut. When you do get yourself a house, you should be able to get far more for your money than you can in CT. Enjoy the warmth, bet you are glad you are not in the NE today!!
March 2nd, 2009 at 4:49 pmOkay - so you’ve moved to Texas and as I scrolled through the 200+ replies you have I can’t believe how many readers you have who are actually IN Texas. There were so many people welcoming you …
And I know a few guys who rode broncs and bulls over the years in small rodeos. Whatever you do, keep your kids in baseball, football, soccer and dance! - Like the song says - Mama - don’t let your babies grow up to be Cowboys (that ride in rodeos)! Ouch!!!!!
Enjoy!
March 3rd, 2009 at 11:30 amChris, you posted this waaaaaay back: http://www.notesfromthetrenches.com/2006/07/09/like-moses-wandering-the-desert/trackback/
March 3rd, 2009 at 5:00 pmand I am cracking up now, thinking you MAY have found your people!! Yay!
Welcome to Texas!
Enjoy the nice weather now because by May you will be complaining that it is too hot, and by July’s summer league time you will be complaining about how hot it is in the shade, and in October you will be asking if Texas has seasons, and by Christmas you will be whining about wearing shorts on Christmas day and wondering if you will ever see snow again.
As others mentioned beware of the fire ants and scorpions. And if you think Texans take their baseball seriously you haven’t seen anything yet - football season will have whole new meaning for you.
Don’t worry about saying ya’ll. You’ll be surprised how quickly you will go from grinning every time someone says it, to not even noticing it, to having it roll off your own tongue completely unnoticed.
March 3rd, 2009 at 5:11 pmDo you have any ugly children? Really, because you have a whole passel of adorableness.
March 5th, 2009 at 8:46 pmROFL. If I didn’t already know where you moved to, I would have gotten it with that one comment alone. Texans are soooo into their sports. And if you think they are crazy about baseball, just wait until football season. ;O)
March 11th, 2009 at 12:01 pm