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Wake Up!  While most everybody gets excited about the Easter Bunny, don’t forget that Easter is a time to celebrate Jesus and the fact that He rose from the grave.  It happened early on Easter morning nearly 2000 years ago, and to this day, folks still like to wake up before the sun to kick off the Easter celebration.  Because if Jesus can muster up the ability to rise from the dead, then you can muster the ability to rise from the bed.

If you’ve never attended an Easter Sunrise Service, you definitely should.  It’s a truly special time.  To help you make this the year, here’s a list of many sunrise services to be found across the state. While this list is in no way comprehensive, it will definitely help you get started.

Bolivar Peninsula Easter “Son Rise” Service – Crystal Beach, TX

Join the Ministerial Alliance at 7 a.m. on March 27 for their annual sunrise service on the beach off of West Lane on the Bolivar Peninsula which is about an hour outside of Galveston. Watch the sunrise over the ocean and enjoy live music, choir and worship. Bring your own chair to sit in. For more information at www.bolivarpeninsulatexas.com.

Easter Sunrise Service at McNair Park – Sunrise Beach, TX

The First Baptist Church of Sunrise Beach is hosting a Sunrise Service from 6:30-7:30 a.m. on Easter morning, March 27, at the McNair Park Pavilion on the shore of Lake LBJ. Refreshments will be served before and after the service. For more information, visit http://www.fbcsrb.org/easter.

Easter Sunrise Service on The Mound – Flower Mound, TX

The Summit Club of Flower Mound and the Women of Flower Mound have been hosting a sunrise service on the Flower Mound since 1974, and this year the Rockpointe Church is conducting the service. It will be on The Flower Mound at 6:30 a.m. on March 27. There will also be replicas of the three crosses, and donuts and coffee will be provided. The Summit Club suggests that guests arrive at 6:15 a.m. and bring their own chairs. For more information, go to http://www.summitclub.org/.

Sunrise Service at Rockport Beach – Rockport, TX

Gather your family and join the First United Methodist Church in worship at their beach-side sunrise service at 7 a.m. on March 27 at the Rockport Beach. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs. You can find the details at www.mychurchevents.com.

Central Presbyterian Easter Sunrise Worship Service – Austin, TX

The Central Presbyterian Church is hosting a sunrise service at 6:30 a.m. at the Zilker Clubhouse patio on March 27. Following the service, there will be a breakfast at 9 a.m. in Smoot Hall. After breakfast, kids can enjoy a Easter symbol hunt as well as a “Flowering of the Cross” in which families are encouraged to bring flowers from their front yards to adorn the cross. For more information on these events, go to http://www.cpcaustin.org/ministries-fellowship/worship/.

Holy Word Austin Easter Sunrise Service – Austin, TX

Holy Word Austin is hosting a sunrise service at 7 a.m. on Easter Morning, March 27, at Pioneer Farms, followed by an Easter Egg hung for children 8 and under. Donuts and drinks will be provided at the service, and at 8:45 a.m. a full complimentary breakfast will be served at Holy Word Austin. Visit http://holyword.net/easter/ for more information. 

Grace Lutheran Church Easter Sunrise Service – San Antonio, TX

Grace Lutheran Church is hosting a sunrise service with multiple Lutheran Churches in the area at the Arneson River Theater. After the service at 7 a.m. on March 27. There will be a breakfast taco meal at the Grace Lutheran Church following the service. For more information, go to www.gracesa.org.

Christian Church of Midland Sunrise Service – Midland, TX

The Christian Church of Midland is hosting a sunrise service at their building at 7:30 a.m. on March 27 and the entire community is invited. For more details, go to http://www.ccofm.com/.

Easter in East Dallas – Dallas, TX

Join Munger Place Church for a sunrise service at 6:45 a.m. on March 27 in Garrett Park, which is across the street from the church. There will be food, family pictures, a petting zoo and more. To learn more about the service, go to Munger Place Church’s website: http://www.mungerplace.org/easter/.

Glen Rose Community Easter Sunrise Service – Glen Rose, TX

The Ministerial Alliance of Glen Rose is hosting a sunrise service with several churches in the area at 7 a.m. on Easter Sunday, March 27, at Glen Lake camp. The service, which will last about an hour, will be lead by Pastor James Oliver. You can find more information at the Ministerial Alliance’s Facebook page or at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship Church’s website.

 First United Methodist Church – Huntsville, TX

Join First United Methodist Church from 7-8 a.m. on March 27 for a sunrise service on their front lawn. There will be worship and community. For the details, check out their website: http://huntsvillefumc.org/.

We know that Spring means you’re ready to get out and about and enjoy the sunshine and wildflowers, and we’ve got you covered for all your spring trippin’ needs over at the Daytripper General Store.

In our SWAG LAB, we’ve created the perfect hats to keep you cool, sunburn free and styling on all your day tripping adventures. While you’re enjoying the sunshine, you can sip lemonade from a Daytripper Nalgene Water Bottle or coffee in a Vaya Con Dios Travel Mug. Or you can enjoy a cold one from our Daytripper Stainless Steel Double-Wall Pint Cup. No matter what you’re drinking, the Daytripper Koozie will provide style and comfort.

If you’re looking for day trips to take this spring, we’ve got that taken care of too; you can purchase digital versions of our episodes HERE. And remember to trip in your Daytripper shirts and share pictures with us of your awesome adventures!

Happy Trippin!

Spring Break is coming up, and that means you’re probably looking for fun ways to spend the extra days with your family. Instead of lounging in front of the TV all week, let your kids learn while having fun!  Check out our list of children’s museums around Texas that are sure to keep you and your kids busy and smiling. Disclaimer: This list isn’t comprehensive, but it will get you started!

Children’s Museum of Houston

Address: 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004

Website: www.cmhouston.org

Hours: Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

At the Children’s Museum of Houston, kids can spend the day learning everything from how water works to cyber science in 14 hands-on exhibits. They can visit Kidtropolis, a city replica where they can take on government roles and have whatever career they choose. Kids will have a splash at the museum’s FlowWorks, an interactive exhibit where kids can explore the properties of water by playing with it. At the Matter Factory exhibit, kids can pretend to be scientists and get a glimpse into the future, experimenting with different materials and discovering their properties. Admission to the museum is $12 for children and adults, and every Thursday night from 5-8 p.m. is Free Family Night.

 

The Thinkery

Address: 1830 Simond Ave., Austin, TX 78723

Website: www.thinkeryaustin.org

Hours: Tues. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sat – Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

At the Thinkery, kids of all ages will have fun learning through art, science, math and more. At Space 8, kids 8 and up can put on their thinking caps to create new inventions, the Kitchen Lab allows kids to learn about food through hands-on experiments, and in Our Backyard, children can climb on an innovative playground or splash around with water toys. Admission is $9 for adults and children, and kids 0-23 months are free.

 

The DoSeum

Address: 2800 Broadway St., San Antonio, TX 78209

Website: www.thedoseum.org

Hours: Mon – Fri 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. -5 p.m., Sun 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

The DoSeum (pronounced Doo-See-Um) makes entertaining kids of different ages easy. It has a giant outdoor space called Big Outdoors that is zoned into different sections based on age and noise level where kids can explore, climb and discover to their heart’s content. At the Innovation Station, kids are free to use their imaginations to create and solve problems. Kids can channel their inner-spy at the Spy Academy, where they’ll recieve a mission and can use team work to find a solution. Admission is $12 for kids and adults; babies under one are free. Every first and third Tuesday of the month is H-E-B Free Family Night.

 

Fort Worth Museum of Science and History

Address: 1600 Gendy St., Ft. Worth, TX 76107

Website: www.fwmuseum.org

Hours: Mon – Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun. Noon – 5 p.m.

At the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, kids can explore tons of subjects. At the DinoLabs and DinoDig kids can search for authentic fossils or build their own dinosaur. The Children’s Museum is a place where kids 8 and under can learn about natural science through hands-on exhibits and view live reptiles in their natural habitats. The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History also has an IMAX theater where kids can catch an educational show about subjects like tornadoes and the rain forest. Admission for the museum is $11 for kids 2-12 and $15 for adults, and includes a visit to the Planetarium.

 

Science Spectrum & OMNI Theater

Address: 2579 S. Loop 289 #250, Lubbock, TX 79423

Website: www.sciencespectrum.org

Hours: Mon. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sun. 1-5 p.m.

The Science Spectrum in Lubbock, TX has something for everyone on its three floors of exhibits. Kids under 5 can enjoy the Children’s Museum which includes a pretend supermarket, vet clinic and more. At the Physical Science exhibits, kids can learn about momentum, electrical circuits and more through hands-on learning. There’s also a Bubbles room, an exhibit with live reptiles and snakes and the Tinker Counter where kids can build creations. The Science Spectrum also has an OMNI Theater and an aquarium filled with Texas wildlife. Admission is $8 for adults, $6.50 for kids ages 3 – 12 and free for kids under 2.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Address: 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, TX 75201

Website: www.perotmuseum.org

Hours: Mon. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

At the Perot Museum, kids will learn about science and the world around them through its 11 permanent exhibits. Children under 5 can explore an indoor nature hike and learn about careers in the Dallas Farmer’s Market at the Moody Family Children’s Museum. At the Lamar Hunt Family Sports Hall, kids will learn about physiology and physics by studying their own body in motion through different sports. The Expanding Universe Hall allows kids to take a trip to the moon by taking a 3D animated journey through space and learn about how light travels through different experiments. There’s also a theater that plays 3D movies. Admission is $12 for kids 2-17 and $19 for adults. The first Thursday of every month the museum stays open late from 5 – 9 p.m.

Discovery Science Place

Address: 308 N. Broadway Ave., Tyler, TX 75702

Website: www.discoveryscienceplace.org

Hours: Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun. 1-5 p.m.

Kids will have fun fueling their imagination with Discovery Science Place’s hands-on exhibits. At Hometown, USA, kids can pretend in a replica of a town with a bank, grocery store, bank and more. They can learn about broadcast journalism on the “set” of CBS19 Kids TV station with a control room and a working camera.  At the Buford Kinetics Gallery, kids use balls and different activities to learn about motion. Admission is $6 for kids 2-12 and $8 for adults ages 13 and up. Children under 2 are free.

McKenna Children’s Museum

Address: 801 W. San Antonio St., New Braunfels, TX 78130

Website: www.mckennakids.org

Hours: Mon. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

McKenna Children’s Museum provides children with the opportunity to explore and be creative. In the Art Studio, children become artists creating sand art, painting on canvases and making crafts. At Destination Space, kids can imagine life as an astronaut by getting a chance to pilot their own space ship and trying on space suits. In The Great Outdoors, kids can climb on the playground, build with blocks and enjoy all kinds of water activities. Admission is $7.50.

Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History

Address: 1900 N. Chaparral St., Corpus Christi, TX 78401

Website: www.ccmuseum.com

Hours: Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

This museum has something for everyone. Kids can learn about Corpus Christi’s history and historic shipwrecks. At the Paleontology exhibit, kids will discover more about dinosaurs and young kids can enjoy the Children’s Wharf. Throughout the museum, they’ll also learn about Earth Science and Coastal Ecology. The Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History also has a Theater Troupe that performs historical reenactments and demonstrations. Admission is $7 for kids 3-12, $9 for adults and free for children 2 and under.

Countless men fought and sacrificed their lives so that Texas could be independent. In honor of Texas’s birthday on March 2, here is a timeline of the events that led to Texas’s freedom from Mexico in 1836.

October 2, 1835 – Battle of Gonzales

It all started in Gonzales, when a troop of Mexican soldiers arrived to reclaim a cannon from the Texan colonists that Mexico loaned them for protection against the Indians. Already angered by Santa Anna’s tyranny, the Texans refused to surrender the cannon and taunted the Mexican soldiers with a call to “Come and Take It.”  On Oct. 2, the Texan colonists attacked the Mexican troops, sparking the Texas Revolution.

December 5, 1835 – Siege of Bexar 

This was the first real battle of the Texas Revolution. After the Gonzales conflict, the Texan soldiers followed the Mexican troops back to San Antonio de Bexar, which was a Mexican military garrison and the center of commerce. After a few small skirmishes, on Dec. 5, Benjamin R. Milam and Francis W. Johnson led a surprise attack on the town. After five days of fighting, the Texans seized the town from Mexican General Martin Perfecto de Cos and gained control of the Alamo.

Feb. 23, 1836 – Battle of the Alamo begins

After taking the Alamo, many Texan volunteers left the city to return to their families. The remaining Texans were caught by surprise when General Santa Anna and his army arrived on Feb. 23 and trapped them in the mission.  Santa Anna demanded the Texans surrender, but Travis refused with a cannon shot prompting the Mexicans to attack the fort, starting the 13-day Battle of the Alamo.

Feb. 24, 1836 – Travis Writes “Victory or Death” Letter

After withstanding cannon fire and attacks for 24 hours, Commander William Barret Travis knew they were doomed without reinforcements. He penned a letter to the “people of Texas and all Americans in the world” pleading for help and stating his intentions to “never going to surrender or retreat.” It was “Victory or Death.” While a few troops did arrive on March 1, the Texans were still greatly outnumbered.

March 2, 1836 – Convention of 1836   

With The Alamo under siege, a provisional Texas government, consisting of 59 elected men, met at Independence Hall in Washington-on-the-Brazos to decide Texas’s future. Together they wrote a new Constitution and the Texas Declaration of Independence, establishing Texas as a new sovereign nation.

March 6, 1836 – Fall of the Alamo  

At 5 a.m. on March 6, General Santa Anna called for a surprise attack on the Alamo. His officers argued that there was no justification for attacking the Texans when they were already low on supplies and would probably surrender within days, but Santa Anna was insistent. The Mexican army fired cannons at all four walls of the Alamo and attacked. The battle lasted 90 minutes and left 189 Texas men dead.

March 27, 1836 – Goliad Massacre 

Less than a month after the fall of the Alamo, the Texas army was increasing in number which angered Santa Anna.  As a result, he ordered that any prisoners taken in battle against Mexico be shot. Commander James Walker Fannin, Jr. and his men surrendered at the Battle of Coleto on the condition that they be treated as prisoners of war and escorted back to the United States as soon as possible. Mexican General Mexia agreed to Fannin’s terms and delivered the prisoners to Presidio at La Bahia in Goliad. However, instead of honoring his promise, on March 27, Mexican guards marched the Texan men out of camp and executed them by the side of the road. Fannin and the other injured soldiers were executed in front of the Bahia Chapel.

April 21, 1836 – Battle of San Jacinto   

This was the last major battle in the Texas Revolution. On the morning of April 21, General Sam Houston and the Texan army found themselves camped near a small bayou less than a mile from Santa Anna and the Mexican army.  At 3:30pm in the afternoon, all was quiet in the Mexican camp.  With cries of “Remember the Alamo” and “Remember Goliad” ringing in the air, the Texan army surprise-attacked the napping Mexican troops. The battle only lasted 18 minutes, but during that short time 630 Mexicans were killed and 730 were taken prisoner. Santa Anna escaped during the fight, but was captured the next morning in the grass, dressed as a common soldier.

May 14, 1836 – Treaties of Velasco were Signed 

After his capture at the Battle of San Jacinto, Santa Anna was taken to Velasco, TX where he signed a treaty stating he could never fight against Texas and that Mexico would immediately evacuate the new republic, officially ending the Texas Revolution. Texas was its own sovereign nation for nearly a decade before joining the United States in 1845 and becoming its 28th state.

For more information on Texas’s road to victory, visit the Texas State Historical Association or The Alamo’s website. 

Texas is turning 180 this year! March 2 marks the 180th Anniversary of Texas declaring its freedom from Mexico by signing the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836. A birthday this big deserves a Texas-sized birthday party and that’s exactly what’s happening all over the state! Here’s a list of the celebrations around Texas you won’t want to miss. And if you’re really in the party mood, you can hit up all of them…

BATTLE OF THE ALAMO 180TH ANNIVERSARY – SAN ANTONIO, TX

When: Feb. 23 – March 6

What: To commemorate the number of days the Alamo was under siege, San Antonio is hosting a 13-day celebration. Everyday, starting Feb. 23, a daily overview of events from letters to historic speeches will be read in front of the Alamo Church at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Additionally, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Living History demonstrations will be performed on the grounds. The celebrations lasting from Feb. 23 – March 6 will include an Alamo Movie Night on Feb. 27, a Dusk at the Alamo Ceremony on Mar. 6 and much more. To view the other events taking place during the Alamo’s 13-day celebration, check out their website: http://www.thealamo.org/index.html.

 

“RIDE FOR TEXAS FREEDOM” HISTORICAL REENACTMENT

When: Feb. 24 – March 6

What: The Alamo and Washington on the Brazos historical sights are teaming up to retrace the historic “Ride for Texas Freedom” route, commemorating when on Feb. 24, 1836, Courier Albert Martin delivered Alamo commander William B. Travis’s “Victory or Death” letter to the Texas people, pleading for reinforcements at the Battle of the Alamo. The reenactment will begin at the Alamo at 10 a.m. on Feb. 24, as the horsemen are sent off along the historic route through Seguin, Gonzales, Shiner, San Felipe, Belmont, Sublime, Altair and Beard. The route ends at Washington on the Brazos on March 6. Find more information here.

 

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR THE VETERANS OF THE TEXAS REVOLUTION – AUSTIN, TX

When: March 2

What: The members of Celebrate Texas along with the Texian Legacy Association will host an annual Memorial Service at the State Cemetery in Austin at 9 a.m. on March 2. There will be a guest speaker and muskets will be fired to honor the veterans. Following the ceremony, there will be a tour of the heroes buried in the cemetery on Republic Hill. To learn more about the service, go to  http://celebratetexas.net/memserv05.html.

TEXAS INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION OF NORTH TEXAS – ACTON, TX

When: March 2

What:  The Texas Heroes Foundation is conducting a  “Stroll Through Texas History” from 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Acton Baptist Church. Festivities include crafts, live music, rifle demonstrations and the chance to meet Texas Heroes. There will also be a “Selfie Scavenger Hunt” with a prize of $50. At 1 p.m., a ceremony honoring Elizabeth Crockett will happen at her grave site. Thirteen yellow roses commemorating the days the Alamo was under siege will be placed on the monument. For more information, visit http://march2texas.com/schedule.

 

TEXAS INDEPENDENCE DAY AND GENERAL SAM HOUSTON BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION – HUNTSVILLE, TX

When: March 2

What: Huntsville, home of Sam Houston, is celebrating both Texas’s Independence and Houston’s Birthday, which is also on March 2. Starting at 9:15 a.m., there will be a coffee reception, then at 11 a.m., a ceremony honoring Sam Houston will take place at his grave site. At 12:30 p.m., there will be a lunch at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum and then at 2 p.m., there will be a “Toast to Texas” and a birthday cake for General Houston. For more information on how to RSVP, go to http://samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com/.

 

TEXAS INDEPENDENCE DAY SHOW AND DISCOUNTS – GRUENE, TX

When: March 2

What: Gruene is celebrating Texas Independence Day by offering a free Bob Livingston concert from 1-5 p.m. and a free Mike & The Moonpies concert from 6-10 p.m. at Gruene Hall.  To commemorate Texas’s 180th birthday, many stores and restaurants in Gruene will have discounts like an $18 Texas T-Bone at the Gristmill River Restaurant, as well as an 18% discount off all $18 or more purchases at multiple stores. To view all discounts, visit http://gruenetexas.com/TXIndDay2016.html.

 

TEXAS BIRTHDAY BASH – NAVASOTA, TX

When: March 4-5

What: Navasota is throwing a Texas-sized two-day birthday party. It starts at 5:30 p.m. on Friday night and events are scheduled until 11 p.m. Saturday night. The festival includes live performances from Texas artists like Aaron Watson, the Josh Abbott Band, Kyle Park and more. There will also be a Chili Bowl Cook-off, a South Texas Gunfighters Show and a Made in Texas craft fair. The kids can enjoy a mechanical bull, petting zoo, cowboy-themed playground and pony rides. To view the schedule and enter for a chance to win various prizes, visit   http://www.texasbirthdaybash.com/.

 

TEXFEST – CARROLLTON, TX

When: March 5

What: Historic Downtown Carrollton is hosting TexFest to honor all things Texas. Lasting from 4 -10:30 p.m., this festival will feature local craft breweries, photo opportunities with longhorn steers and live performances by The O’s and Aubrey Lynn England. The event is free to the public. For more information on TexFest, click here.

Live TEXAS History Music Show – LUCKENBACH, TX

When: March 5

What: Luckenbach is hosting a free Doug Moreland and Brian Burns concert from 12 – 5 p.m at Luckenbach Dance Hall. Doors open at 11 a.m. There will also be an Official Flag Retirement Ceremony with Former Texas Rangers. For more information, visit http://www.luckenbachtexas.com/events.

 

TEXAS INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION – WACO, TX

When: March 5

What: The Historic Waco Foundation is hosting a celebration from 6-9 p.m. There will be a silent auction, a BBQ Buffet and Bar, and performances from Johnny Rodriguez and Kayla Ray. To purchase tickets and learn more about the event, visit  http://www.historicwaco.org/calendar/2016/3/5/texas-independence-day-celebration.

 

WASHINGTON ON THE BRAZOS CELEBRATION  – WASHINGTON, TX

When: March 5-6

What: Washington on the Brazos, the birthplace of Texas, is celebrating the 180th anniversary of Texas’s Independence, as well as the 100th birthday of the state park. For this weekend, the usual fees for Independence Hall, Star of the Republic Museum and Barrington Living History Museum are waived. Parking and admission to the park are free as well. This two-day celebration includes a historical play about the signing of the Texas Declaration of Independence, a special exhibit at the Star of the Republic Museum on the personal lives of the men who signed the declaration and a kids’ zone where children can dress up in historical costumes and sign a replica of the Texas Declaration of Independence. The festival is from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on March 5-6. For more information, visit  http://wheretexasbecametexas.org/events/texas-independence-day-celebration/.

 

CELEBRATE TEXAS PARADE and 5K – AUSTIN, TX

When:  March 5 -6

What: The Celebrate Texas festivities begin at 8 a.m. on March 5 with a 5K run starting on the Congress Avenue Bridge and coursing through downtown Austin to raise money for the Celebrate Texas scholarship fund. Then at 9:30 a.m., there will be a Parade on the Congress Avenue Bridge. The celebrations continue on March 6 with a Alamo Defenders Remembrance Ceremony at 2 p.m. at the monument on the south of the State Capitol grounds. Visit  http://celebratetexas.net/index.html for more information.

TEXAS INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION AND BBQ COOK-OFF – SAN BENITO, TX

When: March 12

What:  The Texas Heritage and Independence Celebration Association (THICA) is throwing a huge celebration in San Benito with reenactments of the Battle of Gonzales, the Battle of the Alamo, and the Battle of San Jacinto. There will also be a signing of a replica “Texas Declaration of Independence” as well as live music, craft vendors, food and art contests. For more information, visit  http://www.happybirthdaytexas.com/

 

Valentine’s Day is this Sunday and that probably means you’re looking for a gift to show that special someone (or maybe just yourself) how much you care. Well Texas is chock full of sweets to give your sweets, so here’s a list of the most unique chocolate shops around the state. From candied jalapeños to chocolate salami, these gifts aren’t your typical boxes of treats. Your Valentine’s heart will be as full of love as his or her stomach is of chocolate.

Picture from Cowboy Up Chocolates

Cowboy-Up Chocolates – San Angelo, TX

This chocolate collection has every Texas-themed treat your Southern Sweetheart could hope for. They’ve got Texas-shaped truffles that come in flavors like Margarita, Chipotle Pecan and Lavender.  They have “Sneeze Nuts” which are giant chocolate-covered cashews. They even have multiple selections for the Bacon Lover in your life like maple pecan brittle made with smoked bacon called “Squittle” and “Pork & Pops” which combine popcorn, bacon, caramel, white chocolate and bacon in the most beautiful of ways.

Wiseman House Chocolates – Hico, TX

This chocolate shop is located in a little house in Hico, TX and is best known for it’s fresh made ganache that is dipped in chocolate and decorated by hand. Wiseman’s ganache-filled truffles are so famous it was chosen to be the only chocolates served at the 2009 Texas Presidential Inaugural Ball in Washington D.C. With gourmet flavors like Dark Rufus (a dark chocolate truffle) or Snooky (a dark chocolate coffee truffle), your love’s taste buds are sure to be satisfied.

Picture by Maggie Louise Confections

Maggie Louise Confections -Austin, TX

These chocolates are just as pretty as they are delicious! Instead of a classic box of chocolates, give your Valentine a box of shimmery and colorful chocolate kisses and hearts. They even offer edible lipsticks for the girly-girl in your life.

Picture by Dr. Sue’s Chocolate and Gourmet Candy

 Dr. Sue’s Chocolate and Gourmet Candy – Grapevine, TX

Looking to chow on chocolate without the calorie-counting? Then Dr. Sue’s Chocolate and Gourmet Candy has got just what you need. A practicing physician, Dr. Sue has made it her mission to create nutritious dark chocolate treats. With decadent candies like Campfire Bark and Espresso Truffles, you definitely don’t have to worry about sacrificing taste for nutrition. Turn up the heat this Valentine’s day with Dr. Sue’s Texas Mendiants: dark-chocolate wafers topped with candied jalepenos.

Picture by La King’s Confectionery

 La King’s Confectionery – Galveston, TX

If you’re looking for something more than just chocolaty-goodness, than La King’s has you covered. This classic soda fountain-meets-ice-cream-shop has been turning out amazing fudges, soda treats and candies of every kind for 89 years. Their specialties include Milk Chocolate Pecan Bark, Ambrosia and Pecan Pralines.

Picture by My Chocolate Secrets

My Chocolate Secrets – Dallas, TX

Ladies, you want to show your man you love him? Well, look no further. My Chocolate Secrets has regulation size chocolate footballs, soccer balls and more that you can get customized with his favorite team. If your go-to gift for him is a tie, then switch it up and get him a “Cocoa Couture” tie.

Picture by Quintessential Chocolates

Quintessential Chocolates – Fredericksburg, TX

If your sweetheart is always whining about how you never get them a romantic Valentines gift, then treat them to some wine-filled chocolates from Quintessential Chocolates. These chocolates are filled with real wines from the Fredericksburg Winery like the Cabernet Sauvignon or the Enchanted Rock Red wines. If liqueur is more your style, they also have a huge assortment of spirit-filled chocolates like Tennessee Whiskey and tequila. You can order these chocolates online or at their retail store Chocolat in Fredericksburg, TX.

Picture by CocoAndre Chocolatier

CocoAndre Chocolatier – Dallas, TX

You can’t buy love, but you can buy chocolate heels in a wide range of designs and colors at CocoAndre in Dallas, TX and that’s close enough. But if pricey pumps aren’t your style, they also sell Chocolate-covered strawberries, edible Eiffel Towers and chocolate cacti.

Picture by The Chocolate Bar

The Chocolate Bar – Houston, TX

This may just be the chocolate paradise your heart has been longing for. Chocoholics take heart because this shop has chocolate covered with chocolate, stuffed with chocolate and then drenched in more chocolate. For a slice of heaven, you can order their Valentine’s Chocolate Pizza which is a slab of milk chocolate covered with white chocolate, dried fruits and nuts. If you dream of something more savory for your sweetie, try their Texas Frito Brittle. Stop in to one of their Houston locations to check out their Chocolate Champagne Bottles.

Picture by Dude, Sweet Chocolate

Dude, Sweet Chocolate – Dallas, TX

If your Valentine has a health-conscious sweet tooth, then Dude, Sweet is the place to shop. They’ve got a variety of decadent, yet nutritious, treats like Truly Chocolate Granola and their signature Vegan Chocolate “Salami” which is a chocolate log filled with dates and figs and rolled in powdered sugar. But, on the other end, they also have something for the broken-hearted who just want to stuff their faces this weekend. Namely their Break-Up Potion, which is a rich dark agave nectar based syrup that does wonders in a Chocolate Martini or drizzled over a bowl of ice cream. You can find these and so much more at one of their three locations in Dallas and Fort Worth.

This could be your desk!! Ever wanted to work for the strangest travel show in Texas?  Looking to gain experience in production, editing, marketing, journalism, and being on set for a TV show?  Well then listen up.

We are currently looking for our next intern for the SUMMER OF 2016.  Here are the criteria.

• Must be enrolled in school and seeking credit for the internship
• Must show interest in aspects of television production (filming, editing, writing, marketing, etc.)
• Knowledge and/or experience with non-linear editing preferred (Premiere, Avid, FCPX)
• Must be available to work for 15-20 hours/week at our offices in Georgetown, TX

This is a PAID internship at $8/hour.  If you are attending one the following schools, apply through the links below. All others, please send your resume to tosha (at) hogaboomroad.com.

University of Texas – https://moody-utexas-csm.symplicity.com/students/
Austin Community College – http://sites.austincc.edu/jobs/
Southwestern University – https://southwestern-csm.symplicity.com/

Keep on Trippin’

Spring is right around the corner and that means flowers will be blooming, the weather will be warmer and it will be the perfect time to take your family on a getaway. The Highland Lakes of Burnet County are the ideal place to take in as much sun and water as you want. They’ve got clear blue lakes and plenty of scenic spots to satisfy your need for nature. Here is a list of the beautiful cabins and lake houses you can book for your relaxing retreat.  There’s no harm in trying them all until you find the one that fits…

ARROWHEAD ON LAKE BUCHANAN

Contact: (512) 265-4600 or info@arrowheadlakecabins.com

Website: http://arrowheadlakecabins.com/about/

 

THE RETREAT AT BALCONES SPRINGS

Address: 104 Balcones Springs Drive, Marble Falls, TX 78654

Contact: (830) 693-6639

Website: http://www.texasretreat.com/index.html

 

BAREFOOT COTTAGE

Address: 2122 Lakeview Drive, Burnet, TX 78611

Contact: (830) 693-8564

Website: http://www.frontdeskvacationrentals.com

BANTA CIRCLE LAKE HOUSES ON LAKE LBJ

Contact: (512) 793-6148 or wwwolfe@hotmail.com

Website:  http://www.texasvacationlodging.com/bantacircle/

BELLA VISTA

Address: 1455 Cimarron Ranch Road, Marble Falls, TX 78654

Contact: (830) 798-0818 or bellavistabandb@sbcglobal.net

Website: http://www.bellavistabedandbreakfast.com/

BIG CHIEF RV & CABIN RESORT

Address: 1420 FM 690, Burnet, TX 78611

Contact: (512) 793-4746 or contact@bigchiefvresort.com  

Website: http://www.bigchiefrvresort.com/

BLUE COVE LAKE HOUSES

Contact: (512) 630-5302 or wires4@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.texasvacationlodging.com/bluecove/

BREEZE TERRACE LAKE FRONT

Address: 120 Boutilier, Burnet, TX, 78611 

Contact: (830) 693-8564

Website: http://www.frontdeskvacationrentals.com/vacation-rental-home.asp?PageDataID=39160

CANYON OF THE EAGLES RESORT

Address: 16942 RR 2341, Burnet, TX 78611 

Contact: (800) 977-0081

Website: http://www.canyonoftheeagles.com/hill-country-resort

CHANTICLEER LOG CABIN

Address: 530 Lost Cove Drive, Spicewood, TX, 78669 

Contact: (830) 693-4269 or chanticleer_bb@yahoo.com

Website:http://www.chanticleerlogcabin.com/

COOL WATER COTTAGES

Address: 11534 R R 2341, Burnet, TX 78611-2996

Contact: (512) 756-4791 or info@thunderbirdvacation.com

Website:  http://coolwatercottages.com/

 COOL WATERS LAKE HOUSE ON LAKE LBJ

Address: 916 Clen Oak Parkway, Burnet, TX 78611 

Contact: (830) 693-8564

Website:http://www.frontdeskvacationrentals.com/vacation-rental-home.asp?PageDataID=39030

CREEKSIDE LAKE CABINS

Address: 222 Hatchett Hill, Marble Falls, TX 78654

Contact: 693-5979 or  diane@creekside-camp-cabins.com

Website: http://www.creekside-camp-cabins.com/

HEART OF TEXAS LAKE RESORT

Address: 408 Clen Oak Parkway, Burnet, TX 78611

Contact: (512) 756-7766 or heartex@moment.net

Website: http://www.highlandlakes.com/resort/

INKS LAKE STATE PARK CABINS

Contact: (512) 389-8900

Website: http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/inks-lake/fees-facilities/cabins

ISAAC MILLSAP HOUSE

Contact: (512) 755-0937 or annie@heartoftexaswinetours.com

Website:http://heartoftexasranch.net/

LAKE LBJ YACHT CLUB AND CABIN RENTALS

Address: 200 S. Wirtz Dam Road, Horseshoe Bay, TX 78657

Contact: (830) 693-9172 or marina@tstar.net

Website: http://www.lakelbjmarina.com/

LAKESIDE LODGE ON EAST LAKE BUCHANAN

Address: 201 Lakewood Drive, Burnet, TX 78611

Contact: (512) 756-4935 or stay@lakesidelodgeTX.com

Website http://www.lakesidelodgetx.com/

THE VILLAS AT LEGEND ON LBJ

Address: 105 Range Way Circle, Kingsland, TX 78639

Contact: (830) 637-9280

Website: http://www.legendsgolftx.net/index.htm

LOCH LONE STAR ON LAKE LBJ

Contact: (512) 627-0991 or dthomas008@austin.rr.com

Website: http://www.highlandlakes.com/loch/

LOG COUNTRY COVE

Address: 617 Log Country Cove, Burnet, TX

Contact: (512) 756-9132 or mina@logcountrycove.com

Website: http://www.logcountrycove.com/

MARY MILLSAP VACATION HOME

Contact: (512) 755-0937 or annie@heartoftexaswinetours.com

Website: http://heartoftexasranch.net/

PAINTED SKY INN

Address: 1400 CR 128 Burnet, Texas 78611

Contact: (512) 715-9896 or paintedskyinn@gmail.com 

Website: http://paintedskyinn.com/

RAINBOW HEARTH SANCTUARY AND RETREAT CENTER

Address: 1330 Waterway Lane, Burnet, TX 78611

Contact: (512) 756-7878

Website: http://www.rainbowhearth.com/

THE SAN GABRIEL RIVER INN

Address: 8327 Country Road 210, Bertram, TX 78605

Contact: (512) 470-8336 or donna@sangabrielriverinn.com

Website: http://www.sangabrielriverinn.com/Home/Home.html

SPICEWOOD COTTAGE

Address: 1100 Rustic Lane, Spicewood, TX 78669

Contact: (512) 627-5886

Website: http://spicewoodcottage.com/

SUNSET COTTAGE ON LAKE LBJ

Contact: (210) 601-7869 or sunsetcottagelakelbj@gmail.com

Website: http://www.texasvacationlodging.com/sunsetcottage/

TERRACE VIEW

Contact: frontdeskrentals@gmail.com

Website: http://www.frontdeskvacationrentals.com/vacation-rental-home.asp?PageDataID=39182

THUNDERBIRD LODGE

Address: 200 Greenwood Hills Trail, Burnet, TX 78611

Contact: (512) 756-0508 or thunderbirdlodge99@gmail.com

Website: http://www.touringtexas.com/tbird/

It’s no secret that Texans love their food. We drive miles and wait for hours just to devour a delicious plate of tacos or a smoking heap of barbecue. But we don’t just want the food in our stomachs, it seems we also want it in our addresses.  So, here’s a list of ELEVEN Texas towns that all loved food so much they named their cities after it.  So grab yourself a knife and fork and chew through this list of tempting town names. But be warned, your mouth will be watering by the end of this blog…

Coffee City, TX

With a name like Coffee City, you’d expect a bustling city that rarely sleeps, yet this town is the exact opposite. Coffee City is a peninsula near Tyler that jets out into Lake Palestine, so it’s actually the kind of place you might slowly sip a latte while sitting out by the peaceful water.

Bacon,TX 

Texas, itself, is pretty great. But somehow knowing that this state is home to a town named after the most heavenly meat in the world makes it even better. While Bacon may have been populated back in the 1800s and early 1900s, it seems this town is now just a tasty blip on a map. However, Bacon Switch Road in Wichita Falls still marks where this town once was. Guess we’ll never get to sink our teeth into this Bacon.

Rice, TX

Every Texan loves a good pile of rice with their tacos and beans, but unfortunately, this town wasn’t named for everyone’s favorite Tex-Mex starch.  It was named after the owner of the Texas Central Railway that ran through town, William Marshall Rice. Rice is located just outside of Corsicana.

 

Orange, TX

Orange you glad this town’s not called Banana…or Green’s Bluff or Lower Town of Jefferson or Madison? In all seriousness, Orange actually went through all of those names (except banana), ultimately settling on “Orange” for the fruit groves that attracted settlers traveling on the Sabine River.  Orange sits in Southeast Texas on the Louisiana border.

Ding Dong, TX

Okay, so maybe the town wasn’t named after that chocolate-cake treat you devoured with a tall glass of milk after school, but we still count it as a food town. Ding Dong was actually named after two early store owners with the last name of Bell. They hired an artist to create a sign for their store, and on it he painted two bells and the words “ding dong.” And thus, the wacky name stuck to this town located just south of Killeen.

Oatmeal, TX

Many will say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and the residents of Oatmeal, TX agree…so long as that breakfast contains oatmeal. This unincorporated community near Bertram, TX gets its name from its deep German roots and has celebrated its wheaty-namesake with an Oatmeal Festival for 38 years. Guests can chow down on homemade oatmeal treats, participate in the “Run for your Oats” run, and enjoy a Festival Grand Parade. This town seriously looks like “oats” of fun…

 

Turkey,TX

Pass the dressing, we’re talkin’ bout Turkey, TX! It was originally named “Turkey Roost” when the town was a single post office holed in the banks of nearby Turkey Creek that was full of wild turkeys.  And if this carnivorous name offends you, don’t complain to Turkey. PETA already tried in 2011 by writing a letter to the mayor requesting the town name be changed to “Tofurkey” in exchange for a free town-wide vegan Thanksgiving dinner. Turkey happily declined and gobbles on to this day.

Noodle,TX

Don’t worry if you don’t know how to handle chopsticks because you won’t need them to navigate through this town which was named after nearby Noodle Creek. Legends differ as to why, but some say that the creek was squiggly like a noodle, and others say that in ancient slang, “noodle” meant “nothing” because the creek was dry.  Noodle, TX is located northwest of Abilene.

Pearland, TX

To draw settlers to the nearby railroad station, residents planted fruit trees all over Pearland. And the plan worked keeping Pearlanders full of pears until a hurricane destroyed the land in 1900. And though it may not actually be known for its pears anymore, this suburban town near Houston still draws in a crowd each year for its annual Crawfish Festival.

Sugar Land, TX

Alert to all Texans with a sweet-tooth, Sugar Land is the place to be. The town was started when Stephen F. Austin was granted the land and it was discovered that sugar cane grew to towering heights in the town’s fertile soil. Eventually the Imperial Sugar Company made Sugar Land its home and continues to run its headquarters out of this West-Houston town.

Salty, TX

If munching on candy isn’t your thing, don’t worry, Texas has all you savory-style snackers covered too in the town of Salty.  This small community outside of Taylor was named after Salty Creek which flowed salty because of the heavy salt deposits on its banks.

We recently joined Captain Tommy Moore on another Whooping Crane Tour in Rockport-Fulton and it was a blast. We scored fantastic pictures of some of the rarest birds in the world as they dove for their breakfasts and enjoyed that good ol’ Texas scenery.

Our tour pulled out of Fulton Harbor at 7:30 a.m., so we were up very early. But you know what they say: the early bird gets…well, erm, pictures of the birds. Yet, somehow all our morning grumbles left our minds as we watched this breathtaking sunrise before boarding the boat.

It was chilly and windy, but thankfully each boat is stocked with coffee, hot cocoa and thick blankets to keep birders toasty warm during the 30 minute float out into the Aransas Bay.

As we arrived at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, we could spot majestic birds soaring left and right. We watched silently as birds from everyday seagulls to bizarre beauties like the Roseate Spoonbill feasted on their breakfast of Blue Crabs.

As the boat pulled up close to the scattered flocks of birds, birding experts and novices alike were able to get amazing pictures and catch a glimpse into the birds’ natural habitat.  It was insane how close we were to this Brown Pelican! He was surveying the water for his fishy breakfast.

We saw these American White Pelicans surrounded with Double-Crested Cormorants. Those two often stick together because Pelicans try to steal food off of the Cormorants. Pick on someone your own size, Pelicans!

Finally, we came across the majestic Whooping Cranes. Each winter they fly down from Northern Alberta, Canada to the Texas Coast.

It’s was mind-blowing to see them knowing that these guys are the only wild migrating flock of Whoopers in the world. Captain Tommy pointed out that the Whoopers with red heads are actually babies.

At the end of the tour, even if some of our pictures were blurry because birds never truly pose for pictures, we had an amazing time. We came away with an even greater appreciation for the colorful and exotic wildlife that lives under our big Texas sky.

NOTE: This is our first guest post from travel writer Amanda Waltman. We hope you enjoy it.

Fall is here and while the weather in Texas is a wonder all it’s own, there are plenty of places to visit and things to do to get you in the fall spirit!  Take a look at some of the best pumpkin patches in Texas! From hayrides, mazes and fishing to live music and good food, these pumpkin patches have it all.  And while Halloween may be over this weekend, pumpkin patches go well into November.

Barton Hill Farms, Bastrop, TX

Photos: Barton Hill Farms Facebook

• When: September 26-November 8, Saturday & Sunday
• What: Boasting the most scenic pumpkin patch in Texas, the family photo ops are everywhere! Pick & paint pumpkins, find your way through the Great Pumpkin Maze and visit the farm animals. After you’ve done it all, grab a picnic blanket, some Texas BBQ, kennel corn and enjoy some live Texas Country and Bluegrass music!

Sweet Berry Farm, Marble Falls, TX

Photos: Sweet Berry Farm Facebook

• When: September 26-November 8, Everyday except Wednesday.
• What: Sweet memories are sure to be made at Sweet Berry Farm! After you find the perfect pumpkin, enjoy some homemade pumpkin pie ice cream, go for a hayride or let the kiddos traverse the farm in the Express Barrel Train. Work your way through a Texas-sized & shaped maze and on weekends go for a horse ride and enjoy some grub at The Pumpkin Grille.

Love Creek Orchards, Medina, TX

Photos: Love Creek Orchard Facebook

• When: Every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday in October.
• What: Love Creek is celebrating 20 years as one of the best pumpkin patches around! Go for a hay, pony or train ride, have your face painted, paint a mural or pumpkin, listen to live music or be a part of the symphony, and while you are there don’t forget to tour their famous apple orchard and learn all about the Texas Apple Industry. Afterwards head on over to The Apple Store where you will discover why Texas Monthly declared their apple pie to be “The Best Apple Pie in Texas” or pop into The Apple Store’s Patio Cafe to enjoy a meal from one of the “Best 40 Small Town Cafes in Texas”.

Devine Acres Farm, Devine, TX

Photos: Divine Acre Farms Facebook

• When: October 3-November 1, Saturday & Sunday
• What: A trip to Devine Acre Farms is not for the faint of heart! With a plethora of different activities available, the family is sure to have a fun-filled day. From hayrides, to sack races, games of volleyball, horseshoes and washers, mazes, trike derby and family catch-and-release fishing, you’ll never run out of things to do!

At’l Do Farms, Lubbock, TX

Photos: At’l Do Farms Facebook

• When: September 19-November 14, Tuesday-Sunday
• What: Visiting this pumpkin patch is like stepping into a story book. Take a hayride to the pumpkin patch before exploring the giant maze, or Fairy Tale Trail with the kiddos.Then grab a bag of caramel corn and some hot chocolate and take a hayride to Pumpkin Hollow at dusk where over 150 carved pumpkins are illuminated revealing different Disney characters, Famous people, Peanut Characters and other Halloween themed scenes!

NOTE:  Amanda found some awesome additions to last year’s list.  If you need more suggestions, check it out here – https://thedaytripper.com/2014/10/17/fall-festivals-and-pumpkin-patches/