Jacqueline, Author at Real Posh Mom

Waitress – Dallas Music Hall at Fair Park

March 30, 2018 By Jacqueline 0

MARCH 28 – APRIL 8, 2018

It’s an “easy as pie” decision to grab some girlfriends and go see the cooking themed musicial Waitress! The musical is all about friendships, relationships, motherhood, loyalty, love, and pies! I mean who doesn’t like a good musical and pie, right? The production is uplifting and full of laughs, and tears. Warning tip: Don’t go hungry or you will die of starvation because of all the pie talk!

The musical is based on the beloved 2007 movie Waitress. It is all about women and their struggles and it was created by a team of women that features the original music and lyrics by 6-time Grammy® nominee Sara Bareilles (“Brave,” “Love Song”), a book by acclaimed screenwriter Jessie Nelson (I Am Sam), choreography by Lorin Latarro (Les Dangereuse Liasons, Waiting For Godot) and direction by Tony Award® winner Diane Paulus (Hair, Pippin, Finding Neverland). .

Here’s the plot: It’s the story of Jenna who is a downtrodden waitress who works in Joe’s Pie Diner making amazing homemade pies. Her beloved mother passed on the talent to her in the hopes that it could help her be successful but she’s trapped in a small town in the south in a dead-end job and in a loveless marriage. She dreams of escaping both but now finds herself in a real predicament – she’s pregnant. If that’s not enough to deal with, she pays a visit to her long time doctor only to find that she’s retired and there’s a handsome new doctor in town who’s more interested in her than her baby OR her amazing pies. There’s only one big problem with the new man in her life – he’s married. Oh, what’s a girl to do? Well, if you’re Jenna you bake more pies and give them hilarious personal, life names such as “Betrayed by My Eggs Pie”, “My Husband’s A Jerk Chicken Pot Pie”, “Marshmallow Mermaid Pie” and “I Don’t Want Earl’s Baby Pie”.

Jenna loves to create new pies with lots of sugar of course but also some very creative ingredients. She demonstrates through song “What’s Inside” how she makes her pies and with the song “What Baking Can Do” how it helps her deal with her depressing life. But there is some hope on the horizon for Jenna. There’s a baking contest in a nearby county that may be the way out of her dead-end existence. And just maybe the new doctor in her life might actually be the answer to her love life. Meanwhile Jenna’s best friends and fellow waitresses, the frisky and feisty Becky and the dorky but adorable Dawn are by her side to lift her up with advice, laughter, and support as she deals with this new wrinkle in her already beat down life. Becky (Charity Angel Dawson) delivers the “been around the block” strong and sassy role with a big and soulful voice that will leave you wanting more.

Jenna not only makes magical pies but she’s also loved by everyone who knows her including the grumpy and grouchy diner owner Joe. Their banter in the diner is endearing and sweet and it’s a real showstopper when Larry Marshall who plays Joe belts out “Take it From an Old Man”. Another standout performance that will have you seriously laughing out loud is Jeremy Morse as the hysterically manic character Ogie. He’s Dawn’s new (and first) love interest that she’s met on a dating site and goes by the online name “OKC with a Bullet” (that should give you a hint to his level of coolness). His song “Never Ever Getting Rid of Me” is brilliantly funny and when you put Ogie and Dawn together they will become your new favorite couple.

Desi Oakley delivers a solid and believable performance as Jenna. She’s sweet as southern pecan pie and balances that with a sorrowful sadness that feels genuine. She can also belt out the songs in a big voice which reminded me a little of Reba McIntire. When she sang “She Used to be Mine” in the second act she had me and most of the audience in tears. Her interaction with her jerky husband Earl (played almost too well by Nick Bailey) will break your heart and will make you want to break Earl’s head.

All the performances are strong and contribute to the fun that Waitress brings to life. The young actress Eliza Chabot who plays LuLu is pure delight when she makes her appearance at the end of the performance the audience cheers! I love it when that happens! The sets are creative with the diner interchanging easily with Jenna’s tired and sad home. I also really liked the ingenius way the band slides on and off the stage and becomes part of the diners set. This musical is not heavy on dancing but I found myself not really caring because it is heavy on the music. I don’t always have a desire for the sound track but I do for this one.

As funny as it is, Waitress deals with a lot of real issues and sometimes uncomfortable subjects but it does so with heart and some adult humor (leave the kids at home for this one). There are moments where most of us can relate. Bad relationships, career disappointments, unrealized dreams, and yes, the one that got away. But through it all we have our friends and family who love us anyway, the knowledge that there’s always tomorrow, and oh yes, there’s always pie.

Waitress is a perfect girls night out! Single tickets for the Dallas engagement of Waitress, starting at $20 (pricing subject to change), are now on sale at DallasSummerMusicals.org or by phone at 1 (800) 745-3000. They can also be purchased in person at the Music Hall at Fair Park Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dallas Summer Musicals 2017-18 season continues with the thrilling, spectacular and unforgettable Les Misérables, April 24-May 6, 2018; Disney’s The Lion King, winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, June 13-July 7, 2018; the spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera, Love Never Dies: The Phantom Returns, July 24-August 5, 2018; and closing the season will be the hilarious new musical School of Rock, based on the hit film, August 15-26, 2018.

3 Stacks Smoke and Tap House Brings Full Service to BBQ

March 26, 2018 By Jacqueline 0

My husband and I recently visited 3 Stacks Smoke & Tap House to experience their new menu and walked away extremely impressed and extremely full. If you’ve haven’t visited the restaurant before , 3 Stacks Smoke & Tap House, is a great BBQ restaurant located in Frisco, Texas. 3 stacks has now taken it to another level by becoming a full service restaurant (they’ve gotten rid of the buffet line) and has combined their already terrific BBQ with a full menu that includes several new and creative selections of meats, appetizers, sides, and desserts.

Let’s start with the BBQ. Even though 3 Stacks is stepping up their game with their new and creative menu their Pit Master Bryan Shanahan combines old school BBQ skills but leverages high quality smoking equipment to produce consistent and delicious BBQ. He oversees the three large smokers himself and produces a competition level BBQ that is as tasty as you can get. The USDA prime hickory smoked beef brisket is very moist and tender and has a great cap and smoke ring.

The St. Louis ribs were succulent and tender with a sweet finish. They are some of the best I’ve had. 3 Stacks also prepares their sausage in house in their new sausage production viewing room. That’s a unique approach, restaurants usually don’t do that.

Most BBQ joints build their reputation based on their meats but they don’t try too hard on their sides or alternative BBQ choices. For the most part they all have the same old tired and boring potato salad and beans but 3 Stacks has added some creative sides, appetizers, and desserts. Chef Pete Rukes has taken southern staples and has infused them with a modern twist and added several new items to the menu. I highly recommend the White Cheddar Mac and Cheese, and the “to die for” roasted garlic mashed potatoes. We started the meal with fried green tomatoes with charred corn salsa and chipotle dressing (bet you never had them served this way) and buttermilk and bacon hushpuppies (yes I said bacon – yum). The smokehouse flatbread is very unique and delicious. It has a great combination of smoked meat flavors that you wouldn’t expect in a pizza. Other new items to the menu include jalapeno-cheddar sausage corn dogs, Texas poutine with brisket chili, and a BLT with house cured pork belly (I will go back just to have this again).

Now let’s talk desserts. Who doesn’t love the banana pudding that most BBQ places have? Well Chef Rukes has gone one step further and has combined the banana flavor with my favorite dessert ever – Crème Brulee and has produced a new favorite, “Caramelized Banana Crème Brulee”. He’s also taken another old dessert staple, bread pudding and has created a new decadent dessert called “Warm Doughnut and Maple Bread Pudding”. Everything is made in house and it’s obvious in the quality and taste.

3 Stacks offers a wide array of craft beers if that’s your thing. My vote for best cocktail goes to “Smoke Show”. This is their version of a margarita and it is amazing! It includes tequila, Cointreau, lime, agave and smoke (of course) sea salt! Also of note is “The Ol’Barrel” which is a Manhattan style cocktail. Not only is the whisky barrel-aged but the drink itself is aged in a barrel on site for an extra smooth cocktail.

3 Stacks gets it’s name from the three smoke stacks that greet you at the door to the restaurant and introduces you to what this restaurant is really all about – smoking BBQ. Inside, the restaurant has a large open floor plan with exposed brick walls which gives it a modern rustic ambiance. This puts the restaurant a step above most other BBQ restaurants. It also has several TV’s throughout the restaurant which makes it a great gathering place for game watching and family events.

My BBQ loving husband gave it two thumbs up and so did I! I love BBQ but I also love that there are delicious non BBQ items to choose from too. That alone makes this restaurant something special. Anyone who loves BBQ and is ready for something different needs to put this restaurant at the top of their list!!

3 Stacks Smoke & Tap House is located at 4226 Preston Road in Frisco, Texas . It’s open Sunday through Thursday from 11 am to 9 pm and Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm.

For more information, please visit: www.3stacksbbq.com.

On Your Feet! The Emilio and Gloria Estefan Broadway Musical

March 3, 2018 By Jacqueline 0

FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 11, 2018

MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK

The first national tour of the Broadway musical hit ON YOUR FEET is performing right now at Dallas’ Music Hall and you need to get your tickets right now! The musical is based on the life story of seven-time GRAMMY® winning international superstar Gloria Estefan and her husband, 19-time GRAMMY® winning producer-musician-entrepreneur Emilio Estefan. Together the Estefans and their group The Miami Sound Machine has sold over 100 million records. Never before has a Latin pop musical group become such a sensation and taken over the music industry. They endured many roadblocks along the way but through ingenuity and endurance (and a lot of talent) they became a radio and music video sensation in the 80’s with dozens of smash hits. But that’s only half the story. This is an incredible true story about an immigrant girl from Cuba from modest means who finds the kind of success that one could only dream of and oh the way finds love too. You can’t make this stuff up.

Here’s the plot: A young Gloria (incredibly talented Amaris Sanchez) is living in Miami where she and her family have moved after the Cuban revolution. Gloria is an inspiring songwriter and singer who’s encouraged by her father, Jose who is serving in Vietnam. José believes in his daughter’s talent and tells her “You’re a born artist, my angel. And one day you’re going to be a big star!” After the war when he returns home, Gloria’s father tragically develops multiple sclerosis and Gloria takes on the role of her father’s caretaker (along with her mother and little sister). A struggle develops between Gloria’s mother and the new man in Gloria’s life, Emilio Estefan. Emilio wants Gloria to partner with him and his Latin band and fulfill her dream in the music world. Gloria’s mother meanwhile is more than a little vocal in her disapproval of Gloria’s ambitions because of jealousy and fear of losing her dutiful daughter. Meanwhile her biggest support is her darling grandmother (a real jewel played by Debra Cardona) – she’ll make you smile throughout the performance.

This jukebox musical is energetic and makes it hard to stay in your seat. Such huge hits such as “Rhythm Is Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “1-2-3,” “Get On Your Feet,” “Mi Tierra,” and one of my personal favorites “Don’t Want To Lose You Now”. I had forgotten how huge this musical group was, what a cultural impact they made on pop music, and how much I loved their music until I saw the musical!

If you know Gloria Estefan’s story you’ll also remember a horrific accident that almost takes her life and definitely changed it. You will rejoice at the resilience she has and be reminded that this is what made Gloria the superstar she is in the first place. The beautiful original song “Reach” written by Gloria and her daughter Emily is performed during this point of her story and will have you in tears.

The sets are simple yet project both the Miami of Gloria’s childhood and her old Havana roots. The performances vibrate with energy, spice, and passion and are really fun. Gloria is captured well by the very talented Christie Prades and Mauricio Martinez who plays Emilio is a total delight. The dancers are perfection and will seriously make you want to go get on your feet and go take salsa lessons.

It’s no secret that I love musical theater and I loved this performance from beginning to end. This was a story that was made for the stage because it has everything we love – music that is familiar (and we know all the words to), great choreography, and an epic love story. It’s a true American dream story that will have you in awe of their success. Go and enjoy the journey. My husband and I are still singing the songs.

Single tickets are available for ON YOUR FEET! On line at: DallasSummerMusicals.org or by phone at 1 (800) 745-3000. They can also be purchased in person at the Music Hall at Fair Park Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dallas Summer Musicals 2017-18 season will continue with WAITRESS with music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles, March 28-April 8, 2018; the thrilling, spectacular and unforgettable LES MISÉRABLES, April 24-May 6, 2018; Disney’s THE LION KING, winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, June 13-July 8, 2018; the spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera LOVE NEVER DIES: The Phantom Returns, July 24-August 5, 2018; and closing the season will be the hilarious new musical SCHOOL OF ROCK, based on the hit film, August 15-26, 2018.

Dallas Premiere – The Color Purple The Musical!

January 26, 2018 By Jacqueline 0

The Tony Award^®-winning Broadway revival of THE COLOR PURPLE is at The Dallas Music Hall from January 23 – February 4, 2018.

Who didn’t love the movie THE COLOR PURPLE?! I know I did and now the musical is in Dallas! THE COLOR PURPLE The Musicial has been a huge hit on Broadway winning two 2016 Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical, two Drama Desk Awards, including Outstanding Revival of a Musical, the 2017 Grammy Award^® for Best Musical Theater Album and a Daytime Emmy^®. The musical is based on the Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel and the Warner Bros. Amblin Entertainment motion picture. The musical chronicles Cellie, a young African American woman in the American South from the early 1920’s to mid-20^th Century. It’s a journey of love, tragedy, and triumph. Your heart will explode with emotions.

The very talented cast members from the 2016 Broadway revival lead the touring company, including Adrianna Hicks (Aladdin, Sister Act – Germany) as Celie, Carla R. Stewart (Ghost – National Tour, Rent – Regional) as Shug Avery and Carrie Compere (Holler If You Hear Me, Shrek the Musical – National Tour) as Sofia.

Don’t miss this incredibly energetic and entertaining musical! Single tickets for the Dallas engagement of THE COLOR PURPLE, starting at $20 (pricing subject to change), are now on sale at DallasSummerMusicals.org or by phone at 1 (800) 745-3000. They can also be purchased in person at the Music Hall at Fair Park Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Groups of 10 or more get concierge service and can receive a special discount on their tickets. To book a group, please call (214) 426-4768 or email Groups@DallasSummerMusicals.org.

Dallas Summer Musicals highly anticipated 2017-18 season will continue with:

ON YOUR FEET! – February 27-March 11, 2018

WAITRESS – March 28-April 8, 2018

LES MISÉRABLES – April 24-May 6, 2018

DISNEY’S THE LION KING – June 13-July 8, 2018

LOVE NEVER DIES: The Phantom Returns – July 24-August 5, 2018

And closing the season will be SCHOOL OF ROCK – August 15-26, 2018.

Single tickets are also now on sale for ON YOUR FEET! and LES MISÉRABLES and may be purchased online at DallasSummerMusicals.org or by phone at 1 (800) 745-3000. They can also be purchased in person at the Music Hall at Fair Park Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas The Musical

December 7, 2017 By Jacqueline 0

DECEMBER 5-10, 2017 AT THE MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK IN DALLAS

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas is in town and how great was it that on the night White Christmas opened North Texas FINALLY got some cold weather?! It was a perfect night to see one of my all-time favorite Christmas musicals and it was a perfect show to launch me into the Holiday Spirit!

The musical is an adaptation of a 1954 motion picture White Christmas that starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. Everything about this critically acclaimed and old fashioned musical is magical – the music (Irving Berlin’s – need I say more?), the dancing is incredible (go just to see the top dancing and ice skating numbers) and the players are perfectly cast. The sets are fun and the costumes are bright and colorful. The show will transport you into another time and place where you won’t want to leave.

If you’ve never seen the movie or need a refresher – here’s the plot: It’s the story of a song-and-dance team (former World War 11 army buddies) in the mid 50’s who find themselves putting on a show in a quaint Vermont Inn barn. Meanwhile they are romancing the talented and beautiful Haynes Sisters. Coincidentally their general in the war happens to own the inn and needs some help saving it from the banks. Costars of note are Martha, the general’s sarcastic inn assistant (and love interest perhaps?) and his adorable and precocious granddaughter. It’s all so 50’s and I love it.

The musical includes some of Irving Berlin’s finest songs such as “Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep,” “Happy Holiday,” “Sisters” (one of my personal favorites) “Blue Skies,” and the unforgettable title song,”White Christmas”. Starring in the lead roles includes Tony Award-winning actress Karen Ziemba, currently on Broadway in PRINCE OF BROADWAY, who plays Martha Watson. Sean Montgomery as Bob Wallace, Jeremy Benton as Phil Davis, Kerry Conte as Betty Haynes and Kelly Sheehan as Judy Haynes. They are all a delight to watch perform.

White Christmas is like a warm and fuzzy blanket that will wrap you up and make you fall in love with it all over again. I didn’t even miss the old classic movie it was such a great remake! Take your parents, your kids, or go with friends to see this Christmas Classic – you can thank me later!

DECEMBER 5-10, 2017 AT THE MUSIC HALL AT FAIR PARK

Single tickets for the Dallas engagement, starting at $20 (pricing subject to change) are now on sale at DallasSummerMusicals.org or by phone at 1-800-745-3000. Single tickets can also be purchased in person at the Music Hall at Fair Park box office Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

NOVEMBER 14-19, 2017 AT BASS PERFORMANCE HALL

Single tickets for the Fort Worth engagement start at $44 (pricing subject to change) and are now on sale. To charge tickets by phone, call 817-212-4280 in Fort Worth; 1-877-212-4280 (toll free) outside Fort Worth; or order online at www.basshall.com. Tickets are also available at the Bass Performance Hall ticket office at 525 Commerce Street. For group sales, call 817-212-4248.

#WhiteChristmasDSM | @dsmusicals |@DallasSummerMusicals

What are you thankful for today?

November 23, 2017 By Jacqueline 1

There is so much to be thankful for – family, friends, good health, prosperity but it’s easy for me to pick what I’m most thankful for today. Today is my twin sons 20th Birthday – on Thanksgiving this year!

20 years today I gave birth to twin nuggets who’s combined weight was a little over 5 lbs. After 5 weeks of bed rest in the hospital they arrived 9 weeks early and spent the next two and a half months in the NICU under the care of the most wonderful nurses and doctors on the planet. It was an incredibly stressful time where everyday brought new challenges and fears. At at the end of their extended stay they came home where they grew, thrived, and secured a forever place in my heart. I won’t kid you, having twin premature babies was a huge challenge but once they were home I never looked back (who had time?). I can’t imagine life without these two. They have been the greatest joy of my life and when they arrived I admit my world shifted and was never be the same. My needs didn’t come first and I was happy to sacrifice everything for them. Someone once told me that being a parent meant that you will experience the highest of the highs but you will also experience the lowest of the lows. I hate to brag but I’ve experienced a lot more highs with these two boys than lows and for that I’m very thankful.

My husband and I have been blessed with two of the most loving and sweet boys any parent could hope for. They are smart, fun, and hysterically funny. Jack and Jared are fraternal twins and are different in almost every way. It was like we got two for one – just brothers born at the same time really. Different looks (a redhead and a brunette, green eyes vs blue, and major personality differences and interests). They have brought joy and laughter and amazement. They overcame every fear the doctors had for them for being so premature. God has been so good to us. These two are our miracle babies for sure and I seriously can’t wrap my head around the fact that they aren’t teenagers anymore – they are 20 YEARS OLD!! I’m not even sure what that will look like and if it changes anything. I guess they’re like baby adults now – not 21 and not quite legal.

I am so proud of these two and that they are being pursuing their dreams in college. They still come home for the holidays and they still call occasionally and ask me questions so I think they’re not quite grown (but I seriously think that goes on long after their adults – I still call my mother and ask questions!). So Happy 20th Birthday Jack and Jared! I love you both to the moon and back!

What are you thankful for the most this year?

“Wonderstruck” Movie Opens October 27th

October 19, 2017 By Jacqueline 0

Wonderstruck is a truly beautiful film that is based on the imaginative and well crafted novel by Brian Selznick who also created the wonderful “The Invention of Hugo Cabret”. If you’re not familiar with the book, it tells the story through words (Ben’s story) and very detailed and incredible illustrations in place of words (Rose’s story). It’s got so many layers of imagery and meaning that it will have you thinking about the movie for long after you see it!

Ben and Rose are children born 50 years apart in different parts of the country and circumstances but their lives become interwined after a series of events that bond them in ways that you can never imagine. They are longing for something that seems just beyond their reach and their search for answers results in journeys for both children. Ben (Oakes Fegley) lives in Gunflint, Michigan in 1977 and spends his time looking at stars and space and collecting rocks and various other treasures. He tragically loses his loving and winsome mother (Michelle Williams) in a car accident. He’s living with his aunt now but he’s longing to find the father that his mother would never tell him about and he’s having recurring nightmares about wolves. After a freak accident causes Ben to lose his hearing, he sets off on a bus for New York to find his father with the one clue that he has – an address for a bookstore. Rose (Millicent Simmonds) is growing up deaf hidden away in a wealthy home in Hoboken, New York in 1927 with an emotionally abusive father. She sad and lonely and fills her isolated days with her own star, a silent film idol (Julianne Moore), watching her silent movies and filling a scrapbook with her image and building paper models of New York City. Life is pretty bleak for Rose until she sees that her idol is appearing on the stage in New York City and decides to run away to the big city to find her idol. Ben and Rose’s lives intersect in the wonderful American Museum of Natural History and the connection will blow your mind.

There are many great scenes but my favorite by far is the moment in the movie theater when Rose is watching her idol Lillian Mayhew in a silent film. To watch Rose’s face as she gazes at her idol’s performance on the silent screen is one of the most pure moments in a film that I’ve ever seen. Rose relates to the actress acting out her anguish without words but only through her face, eyes, and broad gestures. Rose is mesmerized by the actress’ performance and she feels that she’s looking at her own anguish in the film.

The performances are all wonderful but Millicent Simmonds who plays Rose is the real wonder of this movie and is truly amazing to watch. Millicent is actually deaf herself and she gives an incredible performance. Her character doesn’t speak throughout the movie but the array of emotions that play on her face gives you the idea of what deafness feels and looks like. Her face is a reflection of the experiences that she having and it is so expressive that she makes us realize that you can actually listen with your eyes.

Go see it and take your older kids (it’s PG) you will both love the artistry of the film and the message that it has for all of us. I love the famous Oscar Wilde quote that is highlighted in the beginning of the story. “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.”

Opening Date for Dallas/Fort Worth is October 27, 2017:

Angelika Mockingbird Dallas and Plano, AMC Northpark

Additional playdates opening November 3 – Look Cinema 11 Dallas, Tinseltown 17 Grapevine, Legacy 24 Plano, Southlake Town Square 14,

Additional playdates opening November 10 – AMC Parks at Arlington, Ridgmar 13 Ft. Worth

For more information about the film go to:

http://www.wonderstruckmovie. com

For more information about the book go to:

http://www. wonderstruckthebook.com/

Carmel-by-the-Sea is Magical

October 10, 2017 By Jacqueline 0

My husband and I recently visited Carmel to celebrate our 23rd Anniversary and it was magical. The meaning of magical is “beautiful or delightful in such a way as to seem removed from everyday life”. This describes Carmel perfectly. Synonyms for the word magical include extraordinary, remarkable incredible, amazing – I think you get the idea. It was a perfect anniversary trip but I guess that shouldn’t be a big surprise though since Carmel has been rated as #3 “Best City for Romance in the World” by Travel Leisure Magazine! Our trip was memorable from start to finish!

Carmel-by-the-Sea, called Carmel for short is a small town in Northern California about 150 miles south of San Francisco. This isn’t your typical California beach town with miles of beach and lots of palm trees though. Carmel does have a beautiful white sand beach and it is next to the ocean but instead of palm trees it has tall pine trees and wind sculptured cypress trees. Add the adorable storybook like European style cottages that are scattered throughout the town and you feel like you just walked into a fairy tale surrounded by a beautiful forest. The town was founded in 1902 and was originally inhabited by a large population of artists, writers, and poets and definitely has a European feel to it.

Carmel is small (only one square mile) but it is loaded with charm and interest. The town is also known for being one of the most dog friendly towns in the world thanks in part to the actress and dog activist, Doris Day. Over 20 years ago she and a partner opened the most famous dog friendly hotel of all, Cypress Inn. The Inn not only welcomes dogs but also has a “dog parade” each night in the hotel lobby! Many other hotels, restaurants, and stores welcome them as well. There are adorable dogs everywhere you go!

Day 1

We arrived in Carmel and checked into the absolutely charming Hofsas House. Hofsas has so much Bavarian inspired character that you will feel like you just landed in Germany! This family owned hotel embodies European Hospitality and is celebrating 70 years of providing guests with comfortable accommodations and personal service. There is so much about this warm and welcoming hotel that will delight you in many ways.

Hofsas is one of the larger hotels in town and includes 38 uniquely furnished rooms. Our room was cozy and roomy with a small fireplace and wet bar. It also came with a great view that overlooked the beautiful pine trees and a view of the ocean in the distance (ask for the 5th floor). All the rooms at Hofsas have Dutch doors which allow you to open the top door to let in the cool and crystal clean ocean air. Being from Texas where it’s frequently hot with the air conditioning going all day long, this was like being in Heaven.

We also had access to a patio area on the top floor where we enjoyed quiet and beautiful sunsets with our wine and cheese pairing (and a couple of extra friendly seagulls).

The Hafsas House provides a delicious continental breakfast each morning with fresh baked pastries from a local bakery and French roast coffee plus fruit and juice. It is also one of the only hotels in Carmel that has a heated swimming pool which is a great bonus if you like to start or end your day with a swim! Other amenities include European Style Dry Saunas, pet friendly rooms, wine pairings, Carmel Wine Walk Passports, and much more. They have a meeting room available that includes a full kitchen and fireplace for gatherings such as family reunions, business retreats/meetings and wedding receptions.

The Hofsas staff was friendly and helpful and the owner, Carrie Theis can answer any of your questions about the interesting history of her family operated hotel (she’s the original owner’s granddaughter) and Carmel itself. She gave us lots of suggestions on dining and activities. The hotel is on the west side of San Carlos between 3rd and 4th streets. For information about Hofsas House go to: Hofsas House or call # 800-221-2548

The downtown area is just a short walk from the Hofsas House and is loaded with it’s own charm. The weekend was beautiful (60ish degree weather) and we enjoyed strolling through many of the cute and unique shops. Carmel has tons of cozy and delicious restaurants, amazing art galleries (over 80 of them), and courtyards that you just want to hang out in for a while and soak in the scenery. Carmel Valley is home to several wineries and in recent years Carmel has added at least 14 wine tasting rooms to downtown Carmel! You can buy a Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea Passport and easily walk (at least at first – ha) to all the tasting rooms. We enjoyed tasting all the different wines, learning about the wineries, and meeting lots of new people!

After our day of shopping and wine tasting we walked down Ocean Avenue to the beautiful Carmel Beach area. The beautiful white sand beach hugs the width of village of Carmel and overlooks the Pacific Ocean with a beautiful view of Pebble Beach Golf Club in the distance. The area also provides scenic paths along the beach for walkers, joggers and dog walkers. We enjoyed hanging out there for quite a while just gazing at the ocean, the surrounding scenery, and marveling at how lucky we were to be there!

Our first night in Carmel we dined at a local restaurant called The Forge in the Forest that’s been voted “Best Outdoor Dining” in Monterey County for almost 20 years. The Forge has tons of history which includes being a well-known blacksmith’s forge that produced much of the hand-wrought hardware that still adorns a lot of buildings in Carmel and served as a meeting place for many famous artists and writers such as Henry Miller and John Steinbeck. The restaurant’s interior is decorated with antique copper walls and the patio is literally a forest of beautiful gardens surrounded by a canopy of pine trees and vines. The patio has outdoor fireplaces and seating which lends itself to a perfect patio setting and therefore a perfect experience for outdoor dining. The food and service was wonderful. The Forge is also known for its dog friendly patio called Dog Pound Patio where pooches can order specialty items from their own menu while you enjoy the patio.

Day 2

The next day we got up and grabbed a picnic lunch from 5th Avenue Deli. The deli is also just a short walk away from our hotel and has a huge delicious variety of sandwiches, salads and desserts. We chose Point Lobos Reserve just a few miles outside Carmel to do some light hiking and check out the ocean scenery. Point Lobos is at the Northern end of Big Sur and the scenery is breathtaking! Jagged and rocky cliffs, beautiful ocean scenes, deep forests, wildflowers, and wildlife galore! Points of interest in this oasis of beauty includes Whaler’s Cove (where we ate our picnic lunch and watched scuba divers enjoy the cove) and the amazingly beautiful and slightly hidden China Cove. If you go to Carmel don’t miss the opportunity to see the incredible natural beauty surrounding it! There are endless places for scenic runs, hikes and walks to be experienced and all of them are breathtaking! For more information go to: Scenic Runs Hikes & Walks

Another must see is historic Mission Ranch Resort. The Ranch was one of the first dairies in California in the 1880’s and was purchased and preserved by former Carmel Mayor, Clint Eastwood. He rescued this landmark resort from condo developers, and renovated the entire property and turned it into a resort. The Inn now consists of unique hotel rooms located within ten buildings on the property and includes a restaurant. This beautiful patch of land has a wonderful view of the Pacific Ocean, Point Lobos, and a picturesque scene of sheep grazing in the pasture with the Pacific Ocean in the background. Does it get better than that? Mission Ranch Hotel and Restaurant

The second night of our European influenced trip continued with a trip to Switzerland as we dined at Lugano’s Swiss Bistro located in The Barnyard in Carmel. It was a completely delightful experience! The large menu includes Swiss traditional cuisine such as fondues, Schnitzels, seafood, salads, sausages, and pastas. From the creamy cheese fondue through the slightly breaded schnitzels and ending with chocolate fondue, I’m just not sure I’ve ever eaten so much and so well.

Everything was delicious, authentic, and memorable. Owner Nargis Lengacher and her late husband Andre created this one of a kind restaurant with a love for all things Swiss and the food and interior reflects that. The red and white checkered tablecloths and a wide array of charming collections of cuckoo clocks and wooden figures make it a fun, warm, and inviting place to be. The restaurant also includes live music on some nights and has a dog friendly patio. Andre Lengacher was the originator and promoter of Oktoberfest Monterey Bay for the last 7 years and was known to many locals as Mr. Oktoberfest. For more information about this Carmel treasure go to: Lugano Swiss Bistro Carmel

Day 3

My husband and I got up the next day and said a sad farewell to Carmel and headed off to the Scenic 17-Mile Drive in Picturesque Pebble Beach with a short stop at one of the most beautiful golf courses on the planet Pebble Beach Golf Course.

After checking out the pro shop and the club house, admiring the incredible view, and accidentally meeting the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Course owner Peter Ueberroth (what a thrill and what a nice man) we continued our scenic drive. It did not disappoint. With every twist and turn of the road another breathtaking scene is revealed. Dramatic coastal cliffs, crystal blue water, white sandy beaches all surrounded by huge green forests. In the middle of this incredible drive is one of my favorite spots on earth, the famous iconic Lone Cypress setting on it’s pedestal over the water. Magical.

Our trip was perfect in every way and we can’t wait to go back! It’s hard to explain the magic that you feel when you’re in Carmel but you will understand when you go and experience it for yourself.

Fun Facts about Carmel:

Former Mayor of Carmel

It has been over 20 years since Clint Eastwood, also known to his fans as “Dirty Harry,” was mayor of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, but visitors still ask “Is Clint Eastwood still the mayor?” referring to his one term that ran from 1986 to 1988. His campaign slogan was “Bringing the Community Together,” and he stressed his desire to build bridges between the business community and the residential community. His strategy worked and though he enjoyed his experience, he did not to run for a second term.

Permit Required to Wear High Heels

Though often mistakenly thought of as an urban myth, the municipal code of Carmel bans wearing shoes having heels more than 2 inches in height or with a base of less than one square inch unless the wearer has obtained a permit for them. While the local police do not cite those in violation of the ordinance, this seemingly peculiar law was authored by the city attorney in the 1920’s to defend the city from lawsuits resulting from wearers of high-heeled shoes tripping over irregular pavement distorted by tree roots. Permits are available without charge at City Hall.

No Chain Restaurants

With no fast food restaurants in the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the city’s charming eateries and tasting rooms offer a full range of cuisine and wine tasting all within walking distance from the over 40 hotels and inns. From Wine Spectator award-winning restaurants to casual eateries and pubs, great dining is abundant, but don’t plan for your typical Starbucks venti frappuccino instead plan a stop at one of the many family owned coffee shops for specialty drinks and your morning cup of joe.

Ice Cream Ordinance

An unusual law of prohibiting selling and eating ice cream on public streets in Carmel-by-the-Sea was on the books and the repeal of the law happened to be one of the pro-business focus points of Clint Eastwood’s campaign for mayor in 1986. He and the new council elected along with him to overturn the ordinance and other similar laws that they considered to be too restrictive to businesses and visitors.

No Street Addresses

Unwilling to see their village become “citified,” Carmel’s founding fathers rejected the practice house- to-house mail delivery in favor of a central post office. To this day, there are still no addresses, parking meters or street lights, and no sidewalks outside of Carmel’s downtown commercial area. Those seeking directions receive hints such as “fifth house on the east side of Torres Street, green trim, driftwood fence” or by the legendary names adorning most houses, such as “Hansel” or “Sea Urchin.” It is, by the way, bad luck to change the name on a Carmel cottage.

Source: Carmel Fun Facts

There’s so much to do and see! For more information about this beautiful city by the sea go to: www.CarmelCalifornia.com and www.carmelfun.com

#StrongerMovie Starring Jake Gyllenhaal Opens this Friday!

September 21, 2017 By Jacqueline 0

What happens when we make heroes out of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances? Find out in the new inspirational and heartwarming movie opening this Friday, September 22^nd starring Jake Gyllenhaal called Stronger.

Almost everybody recognizes the photo that dominated the news after the Boston Marathon Bombing in 2013. The photo was taken of Jeff Bauman being whisked away by a guy in a cowboy hat after his legs were tragically blown off by the terrorist’s bomb at the finish line at the Marathon. It quickly became a symbol of all that is both good and bad about mankind. This is the true story of an ordinary Boston citizen, Jeff Bauman who became an unwilling symbol of survival and hope for not only Boston but for the world after a cruel and heartless act of terrorism. This is Jeff’s journey through the destruction as the easy going guy with no real goals and his rebirth as a double amputee who finds himself responsible not only for his family and girlfriend but for world who wants him to be their hero.

We’ve seen the story of tragedy and perseverance before but this movie is different and special in numerous ways. First of all Jeff is a lovable guy who was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. He’s every man and it’s easy to see yourself in his situation. Jeff’s family and city are all supportive of him almost to the point of suffocating him. Second of all and this is big, Jake Gyllenhaul’s performance is everything in this movie. He gives a quiet but powerful and award winning performance. He doesn’t have that much to say about the new situation he finds himself in (Jeff is not a real emotional guy) but Jake says it all with the wide ranging of emotions that you see in his face but doesn’t have the words to say. Jeff is suffering in a million different ways but he doesn’t want to let anyone down and your heart will break over and over for him.

The other outstanding performance is by Tatiana Maslany who plays Jeff’s girlfriend, Erin. This is a couple that dated for a while and broke up. Jeff wants her back so he decides to show up at the marathon that she’s running in with a sign and faithfully waits to win her back at the finish line. That might have worked except that a huge thing like terrorism completely destroys them both. Erin is guilt ridden beyond comprehension that it was her fault he was there. She wants to help but feels pushed away at every attempt she makes by everyone who surrounds Jeff – his family and in particular Jeff’s long suffering but loving mother who is effectively played by Miranda Richardson.

A pivotal point in the movie is the meeting of Jeff and his rescuer, Carlos – the guy in the cowboy hat who in my opinion is the true hero of this story. This is the guy that risked his own life and ran towards the bomb to save people and in particular, Jeff. At times I believe Jeff wished that Carlos hadn’t saved him. Carlos has his own tragic story of loss and regret and at last Jeff gets it. Not only did Carlos save him but it gave Carlos a reason and purpose to redeem himself. This is the moment that Jeff finally understands how important his story is and that he needs to find the strength to do what’s necessary to get on with life and Carlos rescues from himself this time.The director gives a voice to the survivors of this horrific act and victims everywhere. He creates a subtle but inspirational movie that doesn’t focus on the terrorists and for that I’m glad. It’s the very personal and inspiring story of one average guy who becomes a symbol of not only Boston’s tough survivor character “Boston Strong” but of Americans’ tenacity in the face of tragedy. Jeff is the perfect hero for America – he’s just like us and I’m glad he is. Go see this important movie.

I attended a Question and Answer presentation after the Stronger Movie showing in Dallas this week with the star of the movie, Jake Gylenhaal and the subject of the story, Jeff Bauman. The movie was attended primarily by people with disabilities, amputees, and healthcare workers. There was a lot of gratitude in their voices and their comments that Jeff’s story of recovery as a bombing victim means so much to them. The movie sheds a light on the difficulty and challenges of recovering from the loss of a limb or a debilitating illness. It was a very emotional and uplifting night. The actor and hero did not disappoint, they were both warm, authentic, and caring. As Jake pointed out that night, we have all been through something in our lives that has challenged us. This movie sheds a light on how one man overcame what seemed to be impossible circumstances.

Website: www.strongerthefilm.com

#STRONGERMOVIE

Stronger opens in theaters this Friday, September 22 in Dallas/Fort Worth at the following theaters (check for times):

Legacy 14 Plano, TX
Cinemark West Plano 20 Plano, TX
Angelika Film Center and Cafe Dallas, TX
North Park 15 Dallas, TX
AMC Village on the Parkway Dallas, TX
Tinseltown 17 Grapevine, TX
Southlake Town Square Southlake, TX

The Summer Menu at Jasper’s Gourmet Backyard Cuisine Will Make You Want Summer to Stay

August 21, 2017 By Jacqueline 0

There truly is something for everyone at Jasper’s! Jasper’s is known for their gourmet backyard cuisine and their use of the finest quality seasonal ingredients. They feature gourmet twists on popular dishes and enhance them with fresh and premium ingredients. To make things even better they have added some really wonderful new summer menu items. Think fresh heirloom tomatoes and Texas peaches used in the most unexpected and delicious ways.

My husband and I recently visited Jasper’s at their Shops of Legacy location which is a trendy and happening area of Plano. I love the restaurant’s interior – it’s contemporary with pops of wood which makes it feel elegant and upscale but warm and cozy at the same time. The restaurant did not disappoint. We had an amazing dinner from the creative appetizers to the delicious desserts.

To start off, I picked one of the summer appetizers Smoked Texas Peach Bruschetta. The description sounded intriguing and it was. It’s made with goat cheese with a honey and balsamic drizzle topped with peaches! It has that delicious mix of tangy, sweet, and salty which I absolutely love.

My husband picked the Pulled Pork Empanadas (because he loves empanadas) which is a standard menu item at Jasper’s. He’s now a huge fan. The empanadas are made with a delicious chimichurri sauce and cotija cheese and the pastry is baked to perfection. I have to say it’s now a favorite of mine too.

Next up we tried the restaurant’s very popular and award winning Caesar Salad. It truly is one of the best I’ve ever had. It was very fresh and light (not like a lot of Caesars which are “over” dressed) with grated Grana Padano and crispy focaccia croutons. I’ll order it again when I go back for sure.

For my entrée I picked one of their summer offerings, the Shiner Bock Honey BBQ Rotisserie Chicken over apple wood smoked bacon and cheddar grits (yes you heard me bacon and cheese grits). This dish has everything going for it – Shiner, Honey, BBQ, and Grits so it was a big win-win for me.

My husband tried the award winning Slow Smoked Baby Back ribs with Creamy Baked Potato Salad and Ancho BBQ. The ribs made Bon Appetit Magazine’s top 3 choices for America’s Best Ribs. They loved them and so did my husband (he’s still talking about them). They were fall off the bone tender and are served with a delightfully surprising rendition of potato salad and topped with fried onions – delicious! For sides we chose the asparagus prepared with gremolata butter and the crispy, smoky brussell sprouts. Both were delicious as well.

Now let’s talk about desserts. Oh my gosh do they have desserts. I’m not sure how we had room but let’s say we managed. Our very helpful waiter, William, suggested we have the trio which included the Bundt cake which actually melts in your mouth like butter (highly recommend), the Strawberry Tart (it has the cobbler crust that you dream of), and the Cherry Limeade (think key lime pie with a cherry on top)! Triple Yum is all I can say!

Jasper’s has backyard fresh roots and they seem to be committed to delivering it. Everything is made from scratch here and is thoughtfully prepared. I believe it puts them in a class above a lot of other restaurants. Jasper’s also has a great wine selection and their cocktails were perfect (I did not have to explain my signature cocktail more than once) and the service was excellent. Everything was perfectly timed and more than lived up to our expectations. We will be back. And you should definitely go before summer is over to try their new summer menu. It’s available for both lunch and dinner!

Jasper’s has several locations at Plano, Richardson, and The Woodlands in Houston. For their menu and more information go to: