Bishop Arts District

Mkay. Let me just say that I'm probably going to regret giving my personal opinion on this hidden treasure. I love it. It's my new favorite place. Some people may have a problem because it's in Oak Cliff- which doesn't have the best reputation. But, if there is ever a reason you need a place to go that's unique and simplistic- this is it, friends.

The best way I can describe it is, a revamped area, once considered dilapidated, has been made over to house 50+ restaurants, merchants, and a variety of other oddities.

**Sidenote** There are trees that are covered in these crocheted wraps. It's stunning to walk down the street and take in all of the color especially since the trees are bare for winter. My sister told me that there's this one lady that does them by hand, around the trees.

These places are a "Must Visit" in the Bishop Arts District:

*Dude, Sweet Chocolate- Dude actually works there and will totally give you free samples of whatever is on hand. It smells like a spicy, chocolatey, heaven in there.

*Just Add Jeans- my mom bought me the cutest purse. The store is reasonably priced and had some pretty amazing finds.

*Fete-ish- This was probably my favorite store. It's basically a store full of gifts to give to others or keep for yourself. The store facade changes with the season. This time, because of Mardi Gras, it was this huge jester in purple, green, and gold hanging over the entrance.

*The Cozy Cottage- It's a little old house that is stocked with super cute kids' clothes, toys, etc. My mom bought Ethan and stuffed lizard and Caden a Batman cape made of velvet and satin. Plus, they sell Noodle and Boo lotion and that stuff smells delish.

*The Soda Gallery-It's this store that is stocked with unusual and hard-to-find sodas. When we went in, the selection was minimal. But, we did go during a busy time and it looked as if they were getting ready to restock.

*Dirt- Cutest flower shop ever. It's the kind I wanted to own when I was growing up. (Thing #101 about me- I wanted to own my own flower shop at one time)

*Indigo 1745- Has the most amazing clothes. But more than that, I am in LOVE with some of the perfumes and candles. Oh.My.Word! Heavenly.

*Epiphany (Men)- Best Shirts EVER. I found a ton of shirts to buy Brian. Sports teams (Think: Rangers, Mavs, etc.) that look classy and a little distressed. Kinda pricey but man those shirts were sweet. It was totally up B's alley.

There's a place called, "Make. Shop and Studio" -they do modern craft and sewing classes. Looks adorable and educational...and maybe a little hip.

http://www.themakesite.com/default.asp

Again, I LOVE this place. I feel like I'm the last person to know about it. I can't wait to go back. The drawback is the parking. It sucks big time. But, it really isn't too bad if you go at certain times.

LAST, BUT NOT LEAST!! (I promise...just bear with me, it's worth it!)

Jonathon's Oak Cliff (http://jonathonsoakcliff.com/)

Best Brunch Ever. I cannot even begin to describe the greatness that is Jonathon's. I had, don't laugh, chicken and waffles. What?! It's a real dish. It was so good, I was angry at myself for not finishing it. It's this tiny little house that's been revamped into a tiny restaurant with indoor and (mostly) outdoor seating. Get there early because there is a wait. But, the wait is totally worth it. The staff is friendly and fun so I didn't mind waiting the 25+ minutes. If you're looking for a new place to eat, go. Don't stop and think...just GO. Worth it.

Playing Catch-Up

It's been long overdue, but I am pressed for time. I'm nearing the end of my Master's program (yay!) and the pace has picked up quite a bit. I'm home today, with a sick Ethan, and thought I should update.

Caden:

*Can identify the Statue of Liberty (or as he calls it, "Statue of Livverty")

*Is super compassionate and still obsessed with Batman and Horizon Organic Vanilla Milk. I had to buy the large quantity at Costco the other day.

*I am constantly amazed at what he knows. We received his mid-year progress report from his school and he's counting to 150 in English, 18 in Spanish, he has completely developed a quick wit, is excelling in his Reading and Math Literacy, and knows the Pledge of Allegiance. I'm grateful we have been blessed with the opportunity and funds to allow him to attend a private pre-k program.

Ethan:

*Is a super genius. Duh. He was asked to do a report on an American who is famous or considered a hero. He picked Albert Einstein. I told him I thought he was German. He corrected me and said, "Actually, Mom, he became an American citizen in 1940."

I guess I'll go back to my place, then, good sir.

*He is obsessed with creating and utilizing power points and photo story. This is pretty much the bomb to see as a parent. The fact that he can navigate around technology at his age astounds me.

*And I'm likely to get some backlash and judgement on this one, BUT, he LOVES 'The Big Bang Theory' ---He even requested a Bazinga t-shirt. Sometimes, his facial expressions mimic those of one, Dr. Sheldon Cooper. Note: We monitor what episodes he watches. We don't just let him have free reign. But, as a kid who is considered a "science nerd"- I love that he can see these characters as quirky, funny, and yes, even cool.

Home Stuff:

*Well, the floors are officially put in throughout the house, including the master bedroom and walk-in closets. (We aren't done with this one just yet, but here's what it looks like in the process. Yes, I did paint the inside of the closet something other than white. White was too drab.)

*Paint colors have been chosen and we are slowly getting the rooms repainted. (Trust me, they needed it!)The boys bathroom went from an adorable and sweet baby blue/lime green to a sophisticated gray. I replaced the PBK Dino curtains with a West Elm gray striped one. I'm still in the process of ordering a few things to decorate, but I have to say, as sad as I am to see the little kid stuff go, it suits the little gentlemen to a 'T'.

I will post before and after pictures at a later time...when the projects are completed and the messes are cleaned up.

*We had to replace our water heater last night. Boo! But, it was time and we were going to have to do it eventually anyway.

Anyway, I do believe that is it for catching up. I will post more pictures later. I'm spent for today.

I leave you with this picture of two dapper gentlemen.