Living in Dallas Real Estate Blog

Winter Inspiration From Yogi deAnna Anderson | New Years Chakra Tuning Yoga Class

I loved this inspirational message my yoga instructor sent me this week! A great message on gratitude and not listening to the media message of fear. So timely as I had a conversation today with a friend and discussed how I had been feeling stressed lately about business, family and finances. Then I looked around me and thought how ridiculous it was that I was in Starbucks sipping on a fourBucks coffee and feeling sorry for myself. Truly a case of FALSE EVIDENCE APPEARING REAL-fear. So grateful for all I have and to be living in an abundant country!

Will be jump starting my New Year getting in touch with faith and spreading good vibes! Check out deAnna New Years Day yoga chakra tuning class below!

Seasons Greetings!

"It is only with the heart we see rightly, what is essential is invisible to the eye."
~Antoine de Saint Exupery, Le Petit Prince

What a perfect time to count our blessings! Traditionally, the harvest season has been a time to take stock of all we have that supports us and will nourish us through the winter. With all the beauty around us and all the comforts we are blessed with which are vastly superior to a huge percentage of the rest of the population, it's hard to believe how many of us allow fear infused media to train us to dread the future and then insert an advertisement telling us we need to buy something now to fill that void of uncertainty. Buying things to distract ourselves from our emotions seems to be a cultural phenomenon. Seems like by now most of us have experienced and survived quite a few ups and downs in life, emerging stronger, more capable and resilient. The yoga teachings say that we are our own source of happiness, yet we always seem to be looking for satisfaction from external things. The holiday season can be a time where we recognize and celebrate all the things in our life that are already there or it can be a time when we are constantly reminded of where we are lacking. With all the fear about the economy going on it was interesting to hear that "Black Friday" retailers reported record breaking sales. Has anyone else noticed that the parking lot at the mall the past few years was and is always full? The lines at the grocery stores are always busy too. Noteworthy.

Jivamukti Yoga's David Life says that our attention is the most valuable thing we have and that's why the media and advertisers spend so much money trying to get it. Perhaps one of the greatest gifts our yoga practice brings is the ability to focus our attention for an extended period of time. In turn, being fully present for others is one of the best gifts we can offer. It's more valuable than any material item. Our presence is a present! How often have we heard the cliches of wealthy husbands or parents attempting to substitute fancy gifts as a replacement for their time and attention leaving the recipient still feeling a certain void? The best thing about this time of year is the opportunity to connect, celebrate and rejoice in our relationships with loved ones and to remember to offer what we can to those less fortunate near and far. The yoga teachings of Patanjali say that the more generous and honest we are the more our doubts and fears will be reduced. We will gain insight into why we are here and understand past, present and future. Sound good? Let's give it a try and see what happens!

Hope to see you at some of the exciting events I am offering during the month of December! Those of you who are physically unable to make it to class, remember that there are a few FREE Audio Classes that you can download to stay in the groove. For your convenience, my current class schedule for Karmany and Equinox Highland Park and Preston Hollow is below.

Private sessions are available as well.

Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu~
May all beings everywhere be happy and free.

In gratitude~
deAnna

7th Annual New Year's Day Jivamukti Chakra Tuning
December 31, 2011, 3pm-6pm, and January 1, 2012, 2pm-5pm
at Karmany Yoga Dallas
Donation $40

Come tune your instrument and clean your lens! Prepare yourself to navigate through whatever may arise during uncertain times.
The practice will include uplifting chanting, vigorous asana, elevated intention, a great soundtrack, Colorgize TM lights and the company of many others dedicated to the path of yoga.

Dallas Katy Trail in the Fall Time

We are so lucky here in Texas to have weather where we can still be active outside in December! I know I can hear the Texans grumblings that it is freakin' HOT in August. But I love the Katy Trail in December because it is a great place to slow down, reflect on the past year and think about what I want my year to be like for the new year. It was chilly this morning but invigorating!!! Enjoy nature!

Elizabeth Ho is a real estate agent in Dallas, Texas. She loves sharing what life is like in Dallas. Call her if you want to know more about Dallas or Dallas homes. www.elizabethho.com

Scott Burns - "There's Hope For Recovery in Home Values"

Wow! Is this really a positive article on the real estate market? And I don't mean some fluff about why you should buy because interest rates are so low because I know you have heard that already. This article is written by Scott Burns who I consider to be pretty conservative when it some to investments and finance.

Home builders have taken such a beating these past few years that the number of new homes being built have drasticaly dropped.

Did Scott Burns, who I consider conservative when it comes to investments and finance, really say something positive about the real estate market? Due to new homebuilders taking a beating the decrease in home building and inventory could cause prices to "surge."

Ways an Interior Designer Can Help You | David Call Designs

Wether you are feeling hopeless about decorating that new home or just need a little help picking out the perfect custom paint color for your bedroom an interior designer can help you. Hear David Call discuss how he can help. For more information on David go to http://www.davidcalldesigns.com/

DFW Home Show - August 20th and 21st, Anatole Hotel

Thursday Nights Live Jazz | Dallas Museum of Art

If you are looking something fun to do this sumer that involes staying inside check out live jazz Thursday nights at the Dallas Museum of Art. Sip wine, have dinner, and listen to cool music and beat the heat! Music is played 5-9 and the exhibits stay open late.

This summer there is also half-price ($5) general admission and half price ($5) parking on Thursdays.

Additionally, every Thursday evening from July 14-August 18 DMA will celebrate the art of cinema inspired by their special exhibitions and collections. The films shown will include Pillow Talk, Cage/Cunnigham, Little Big Man, Pigskin Parade, Faat Kiné, and Journey to Mecca. Reservations are recommended and can be made online or by calling 214-922-1818.

Dallas Opera’s young professionals group, Amici de Opera

Looking for an easy way to get involved and more in-the-know with the Dallas Arts District scene? The Dallas Opera’s young professionals group, Amici de Opera , is a group for those who want to meet new people, learn about the opera, and overall be able to take advantage of everything the Dallas Arts District has to offer.

Winspear Opera House - Fall 2011 and Spring 2012 Operas

The Dallas Opera is getting ready for a new season! Come to the beautiful Winspear Opera House located in the Dallas Arts District for their series titled “Tragic Obsessions.” Starting October, the Winspear will begin this series with five different operas through May 2012. Check out the five productions below to get a glimpse of what is to come this Fall:

Lucia Di Lammermoor

This season opener is said to be haunting, thrilling, and moving. Based on an epic Scottish romance by Sir Walter Scott, the story draws the audience into a place and time when women were hesitant pawns in a world where family power is supreme. Giving up the one she loves, Lucia gives in to her brother’s choice of a husband, and only tragic consequences follow.

October 21, 23, 26, 29, November 6, 2011

Sung in Italian with English supertitles.

Katy Kabanová

When composer Janácek is said to be inspired by his unrequited love for another man’s wife, you know there will be no lack of drama or emotion. You will be captivated by the strong internal conflict in what Janácek calls one of his “most gentle and tender” works.

October 28, 30, November 2, 5, 13, 2011

Tristan & Isolde

There are only four performances of this once-in-a-lifetime concert experience, and this is definitely not a show I want to miss. The staged concert presentations of Richard Wagner’s masterpiece tell the intense love story based on an ancient Celtic legend.

February 16, 19, 22, 25, 2010

La Traviata

One of the most popular works will be returning to the stage! Giuseppe Verdi creates the beautiful love story that is set in 19^th century Paris. A young heir to a highly respectable family falls madly in love with a woman, leading to tragic consequences.

April 13, 15, 18, 21, 27, 29, 2010

Sung in Italian with English supertitles.

The Magic Flute

And the season closes with the final masterpiece of Mozart, The Magic Flute. The mysterious ancient Egypt mixed with the European Enlightenment ideas of the 18^th century come together in this joyous and adventurous piece of work. The Winspear stage is in for a magical, mysterious experience.

April 20, 22, 25, 28, May 4, 6, 2012

Walking Down Memory Lane… Nostalgia in Dallas

Walking Down Memory Lane… Nostalgia in Dallas

It is so easy to get wrapped up in work, family, or whatever else that keeps you busy and your day full. Luckily, Dallas has several places that let you reminisce and enjoy the simplicities of life. Here are three of Dallas’ favorite nostalgic spots:

Highland Park Pharmacy

Walking into this old-fashioned eatery and drugstore, you can’t help but feel like you stepped back in time. Since opening in 1912, this old-time soda fountain and lunch counter remains the perfect spot to grab a quick bite. The menu is simple, but I can never pass up this classic pick- The grilled cheese sandwich and a chocolate shake. There is nothing extraordinary or over-the-top about this eatery, but the ordinariness is refreshing and a sweet change. After all, it has been a Dallas favorite for almost 100 years!

Bubba’s

You can’t pass by Snider Plaza and not be tempted by the mouth-watering smells of fried chicken coming from Bubba’s, a home cookin ’ diner and a Park Cities favorite. The drive-thru diner started out as a 1927 Texaco Station and has been transformed into a fun, casual place to enjoy your favorite home-cooked meals. There is even a jukebox in the corner, ready to play your favorite tunes from all decades. My tip: Avoid the drive-thru lane if you can. It is much faster to go in and eat. Fried chicken tenders and mashed potatoes are my go-to comfort food. Don’t forget the gravy- they have the best in town!

Wild About Harry’s

It is hard not to be wild about this place! Known for their hot dogs and variety of homemade custard, customers of every generation can be seen here. The charming, laid-back and colorful atmosphere makes this place a great hangout for family and friends. The bright and inviting atmosphere will remind you of something you will find on the beach in Florida. Try one of their ten delicious hot dogs and custard flavors – the vanilla and Oreo concrete is my favorite- and you will be wild for Harry’s too!

Best Cocktails in Dallas by Jarrod Fresquez

Written by Jarrod Fresquez

Classic cocktails continue to resurface in certain cocktail bars that have chosen to set themselves apart from the rest. Being a fan of the classics (rock, cars, beauties) I figured who better than myself to enlighten the general public as to some of the handcrafted adult beverages we have in several areas of Dallas.

	Bailey Prime Plus - 8160 Park Lane One such drink is the tequila cocktail, El Diablo, which appeared in Trader Vic's Book of Food and Drink as early as 1946. Anthony over at Bailey's Prime Plus was the first person to introduce me to this drink, and my official "Summer 2011 Patio Pounder" was carved into stone. The cocktail combines the classic pairing of tequila and lime with Creme de Cassis-a sweet blackcurrant liqueur-and ginger BEER, not ginger ale (man up, embrace the spice). Also, a "daddy drink," the Sazerac, that he had me sample is now one of my staples. It all began in the early 1800's when Cognac had an intimate relationship with Peychaud bitters, (although in the 1900's rye whiskey was substituted). In fact, in 1859 the drink was the signature drink of the Sazerac Coffee House in New Orleans, where it received its name. Another great flavor is created in one of the prep steps, where you "wash" the glass in Absinthe, and in one of the final steps where some barkeeps choose to singe the citrus before placing it in the glass. If for some reason you can't make it to Bailey's far a Sazerac, poke your head into Dee Lincolns and be sure to ask for Nicole . Dee Lincolns Bubble Bar - 2101 Cedar Springs Road (Rosewood Court in Uptown)
	Hacienda on Henderson - 2326 N Henderson Try saying this five times fast, the Jalita at Hacienda on Henderson, is another great summer afternoon drink. It's a concoction of house made sweet-and-sour mix, hand made jalapeno simple syrup, El Jimador Silver, Countreau, and lime juice. I typically request that my drinks are less sweet, more clear, and I recommend that tactic with this cocktail. Since it is served over ice, it will naturally dilute the liquor enough to where even your sister would like this drink, if she wanted some extra hair on her chest. Another great little treat I found there was the house steeped mango/habanero tequila shot served chilled, thank you very much Whitney.
	Now, if you want to have a confectionary cocktail coronary, go visit Keith over at The Four Lounge (2418 Allen At), where he is known coast to coast for his martinis laced with actual cupcakes, whoopee pies, even captain crunch. Those are fine, for a dessert. But for a drink I have him mix me a wood smoked cherry coke. Now, he is actually very secretive with his mixology, but from what I can tell it's whiskey, maraschino cherries, and honest to goodness smoke he fires out of a gun with a torch into a bottle, along with a splash of something else served over ice. Definitely worth trying, and it makes the place smell like Christmas. Also, I am man enough to admit this, watching him make a cotton cady martini makes me giggle, plus it is just so easy to drink.
	Of course, if you want true prohibition-era fare, go to Cedars Social (1326 S. Lamar St.) where the trend truly became popular. I love it there, they only have one vodka on the shelf, and they look at you as a blasphemer if you order it. One last thought provoking statement: while it isn't truly a classic cocktail, it is classic in it's simplicity, it's ingredients, especially the price... that is The Dirty Dusty at City Tavern (1402 Main Street). It's a classic because I hope it never goes extinct, because any time of day $4 gets you a can of PBR and a shot of Jack Daniels. The owner, Josh Florence, created a combo that's about as handcrafted and complicated as a drink needs to get sometimes, at a price point that makes you feel like a made-man.

There are so many places to go and get a cocktail in Dallas, and you should sample them all, I just encourage you to do so responsibly.

The Cedars Resident Profile | Southside on Lamar - Abi Ferrin and Lincoln Stephens

The Cedars District- South Side on Lamar

Resident Profile Abi Ferrin and Lincoln Stephens

The Cedars Neighborhood of South Dallas is filled with culture, diversity, and vibrant energy. From artists to musicians, designers to photographers, you will find an eclectic mix in this artsy up-and-coming Dallas community. For many, the historical South Side on Lamar is their home and workplace. Fashion designer Abi Ferrin and Lincoln Stephens, The Marcus Graham Project founder, share what they love most about their community. Both work and reside at South Side on Lamar located in The Cedars Neighborhood.

1. Why did you choose to live in The Cedars Neighborhood, specifically at South Side on Lamar?

Abi Ferrin: When I won Texas’ Next Top Designer in 2007, part of my prize package was studio space inside the unique Southside on Lamar building. After getting to know Jack Matthews and the incredible artist community at Southside, I knew I was home!

Lincoln Stephens: I chose to move my business to The Cedars Neighborhood and South Side, from having previously lived here immediately after college.

2. What makes your community, The Cedars, different than other areas in Dallas?

AF: There’s a laid back, creative energy in the Cedars area, especially at Southside on Lamar, that you can’t find in many parts of Dallas.

LS: There is nothing like it around the country. Nothing.

3. What do you like to on the weekends in the Cedars District?

AF: There are some really great, locally owned and operated places both inside Southside on Lamar and within a few minutes. Opening Bell Coffee in the basement of Southside provides great drinks and live music, Cedars Social has the most creative drink menu and delicious food, and Lee Harvey’s is the perfect place to be for a relaxed night out with friends. And for those extra late nights and lunch cravings, Off the Bone Barbeque is open late on Friday and Saturday nights!

LS: Cedars Social.

4. What is your favorite restaurant in The Cedars?

AF: It’s hard to pick just one because each restaurant provides such a different but equally delicious menu…from Brooklyn’s to Cedar Social, to Off the Bone and even Lee Harvey’s, there’s something for every mood.

LS: Cedars Social.

5. South Side at Lamar is known as being unique, vibrant, and very urban. How would you describe the atmosphere?

AF: Unique, artistic, lively, fun, family…that’s how I describe Southside on Lamar

LS: Enchanted in a good way. Dreams come true in this building.

6. South Side on Lamar is convenient for many because it is known for being a residency as well as a workplace. How has your experience been both working and living at South Side?

AF: It’s VERY convenient…just one example was when most people were snowed in this past February, and we were swamped with Super Bowl events and our Nordstrom launch, I didn’t miss a beat because I could walk downstairs and get right to work! We even have Urban Market grocery store that provides us with all the essentials.

LS: It has felt like I am truly at home. My family's home.

7. What is your favorite thing about living at South Side on Lamar?

AF: There are so many amazing qualities and unique attributes at Southside, but if I had to pick just one, I would have to say that the community and family atmosphere and the unwavering support for one another truly makes this the best place to live in Dallas.

LS: Everything is under one roof.

UNIVERSITY PARK RESIDENT PROFILE – SARAH JONES

Sarah Jones, a young and talented fashion designer of the clothing line STATUS, currently resides in the University Park area of Dallas. She is a finalist in the Texas Next Top Designer competition for emerging designers, which will announce its winner on June 29^th, and is proof that the Park Cities can be a great place to call home for both those with large families, as well as, the young and trendy.

1) Where are you originally from?

Houston, TX

2) Why did you choose to live in University Park?

The neighborhood is BEAUTIFUL! It is very safe and pretty conveniently located to all the latest happenings in Dallas. I really enjoy it, and I love walking my dog, Gracie, through the neighborhood.

3) What is your favorite part about living in University Park?

The location is great and I just love the beautiful atmosphere. I think your environment nurtures your spirit and I love being surrounded by beauty- and the Park Cities has more nature than most areas in Dallas.

4) What is your favorite restaurant in Park Cities?

Mi Cocina is a great default for good food if nothing else is going on. I've been known to grab it to-go for low-key wine nights with girlfriends, too. Ziziki's is definitely also a favorite, on Travis Street, - LOVE their Ziziki sauce!

5) Where is your favorite place to shop in the Park Cities?

Elements, on Lovers Lane, is a beautiful store with amazing offerings. Most of the time when I'm "shopping", I'm looking for the kind of stores I could see carrying my line, STATUS.

6) How do you spend your weekends and free time in the Park Cities when not designing for your clothing line STATUS?

I love to travel and enjoy new experiences. I love live music and concerts - whether small, unknown, or well established bands. I also enjoy partner dancing (sometimes Country-Western, sometimes Salsa, etc.) as well as anything near water. Of course, I appreciate a good girls wine night-- spending time with good friends is paramount to my replenishing down time.

7) Do you ever find yourself gaining inspiration for new fashion designs around the Park Cities?

I am always inspired by my customers- their wants, their needs, and their feedback. Highland Park has a high concentration of my target clientele and I've been so blessed by their continued support. I'm always growing and listening in order to continue improving my line.

8) How do the Park Cities fit into your life and career in the fashion design industry?

Perfectly! I feel so spoiled by the area! Part of my design philosophy is allowing beauty of your environment, including your wardrobe, to enhance your life and the lives of others. Think about it; it makes a difference when you are surrounded by beauty and tranquility. I believe in dressing how you WANT to feel.

9) Any other area of Dallas you especially like or spend a lot of time in?

Highland Park kind of bleeds down into the Uptown/Downtown area, another reason it's so convenient for me. I meet up with friends for happy hours and events in that uptown/downtown area pretty frequently.

Dallas Fashion Designer - Shirin Askari

I have been lucky enough to interview the beautiful, talented and local clothing designer Shirin Askari. This Dallas native is not only obsessed with fashion but the creation of clothing. I asked her a couple questions about her own personal style and much more:

1. How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style could be described as feminine and classic with an edge.

2. What are some style trends for the summer?

Colored/pastel jeans, skirts below the knee... and color! Especially tangerine...in my summer '11 line it’s called "vermillion". I normally don't follow too many trends though, something chic and timeless will last you much longer...

3. What are some tips to dressing for success?

Make sure that you not only feel good and confident in your clothes, but that they fit properly.

4. In Dallas where are your favorite places to shop?

Ted Baker, Karen Millen, Nordstrom, I also love finding hole in the wall vintage places...

5. What is a must-have style piece that everyone should have in their closet?

As cliche as it sounds every woman should have a well fitting, flattering black dress that can go from day to night!

Check out the latest Shirin Asakari collection here!

Renew Med Spa | NorthPark Mall, Dallas

Renew Med Spa | NorthPark Mall, Dallas

Renew Med Spa is a one stop shop for all your spa needs. The services offered range from all your medical needs laser hair removal, advanced skin care, skin rejuvenation and just in time for summer body slimming . Renew offers state of the arch doctors to do all your anti-aging services from Botox to non-surgical skin tightening. Also, they do all your teeth whitening treatments to transform your smile. Looking for a spa to pamper you after a long day? No need to look any further Renew also has all the spa services to pamper yourself from massages, manicures and pedicures, eyelash extensions and spray tanning. Looking for a great salon to get your hair colored and cut by fabulous hairstylist? Renew has a full hair salon where the stylist can do anything from a simple hair cut or a head turning hairstyle. All the stylists are educated in all fields from cuts to colors and from protein treatments to the new fad the Brazilian Blowout.

Renew Med Spa is located in the upscale mall at North Park in the Highland Park area. On the second level between Nordstroms and Neiman Marcus. Stop in and Renew yourself today.

Bri Crum reviews Marquee Bar and Grill in Highland Park Village

Marquee Grill & Bar

32 Highland Park Village

Dallas, TX 75205

New restaurant and bar from celebrity chef, Tre Wilcox, just opened its doors to Highland Park residents earlier this year. So naturally, being the self-proclaimed foodie I am, I had to visit the newest culinary addition. Marquee offers the most delicious progressive New American menu, serving traditional favorites with Asian accents. The food is absolutely amazing as is its elegant and trendy ambiance. Marquee offers guests many options on where to dine. Occupying two stories with two outdoor patios in the historic Highland Park Village, Marquee is a pretty large restaurant. The décor is comfortably elegant and attire recommended to dine in is formal wear. After working in the upscale restaurant business in Dallas for a couple of years, you tend to appreciate and notice the details that make an ordinary 5-star restaurant exceptional. I was immediately enchanted by the décor and the attentive wait staff, two factors that should never be overlooked.

As for the food, the spices and sauces brilliantly satisfied my palette. My date and I ordered the duck spring rolls to start, best I’ve ever had. Next I choose a delicious wedge salad and the highly acclaimed braised chicken and paired both with a surprisingly strong cucumber cocktail. We finished with the chocolate soufflé, which was the perfect ending for the meal. Chef Tre Wilcox even stopped by during our meal to introduce himself and ask how our food use, which was a very nice touch. Needless to say, everything about my Marquee dining experience was wonderful and I most definitely will revisit for another evening out.

- Bri Crim, Plan B PR

Woodall Rogers Deck Park - Connecting Uptown to Downtown

Woodall Rogers Park Project:

The Woodall Rogers deck park will create an urban green space over the Woodall Rodgers Freeway between Pearl, and St Paul streets connect the heart of downtown to Uptown.

The Park will promote increased pedestrian, trolley and bicycle use between Uptown, Downtown and the Arts District, contributing to a more walkable city center.

This area will serve as a gathering sanctuary for locals, visitors, children and dogs alike to enjoy the beautiful downtown. The plans include a performance pavilion which will host many outdoor concerts. Also, walking trails, a dog park and a children’s discovery garden with playground, water features and a large area for games and various activities. Many restaurants and coffee shops will be opening up in this area for all to enjoy.

The Park will be complete in early 2012 with all the amenities expected to be complete in late 2012.

The Greener Side of Things

The Greener Side of Things

What exactly is a green home? In essence, a “green home” is a home that increases the efficiency with sustainable resources such as energy, water and materials while reducing building impacts on human health and the environment. Green building incorporates environmental considerations and resource efficiency into the development and home building process to minimize the environmental impact.

The benefits to going green with your home:

Water Efficiency - More efficient water delivery systems indoors combined with drought-tolerant landscaping choices and smart irrigation systems outdoors help extend current water resources.
Indoor Air Quality - Through proper design, ventilation and filtering the source of contaminates can be controlled, diluted and/or captured. This aspect is particularly important in Texas where high levels of allergens and pollen are often reported.
Energy Efficiency - Green homes save significantly more energy through heating and air-conditioning usage.
More Durable and Comfortable - They control water, heat, and ultraviolet light and it’s a tight enclosure with efficient windows, good insulation and smart air movement
Reduced energy consumption actually makes a green home less expensive to own in the long run. Saving lots of $$$$'s!

To find out more about green built homes in the Dallas area check out:

Green Built Texas – www.greenbuiltnortthexas.com
Green Home Residential – www.greenhomeresidential.com
EGC Custom Homes – www.egcdallas.com
David Weekley Green Homes – www.davidweekleyhomes.com
Dallas Green Building – www.dallasgreenbuilding.com/blog

Fun Sports Bars in Dallas

No matter your sport of choice, there are plenty of sports bars in the country where you can cheer on your team, and Dallas is no exception. Dallas has so many great sports bars to tackle that it sometimes can be hard to choose just one. So, I’ve listed below some of my absolute favorite places to eat, drink, and watch sports around Dallas that could help influence your next watch party.

Frankies - 3227 McKinney Ave

Big screens? Check. Junk food? Check. Crazed, sports enthusiasts? Check. Frankies is overall a great sports bar. My friends and I decided to join the large Superbowl watch party this year over at Frankies. For my first introduction of the sports bar, I was overly very pleased. The excited atmosphere was intoxicating, as were the cheap beer buckets we bought. While I wasn’t exactly a devoted fan of either team it was great fun to be part of a community with opposing sports fans yelling at the TVs. Along with more than 30 HD televisions, Frankies is also known for their upscale “bar food.” USA Today recently referred their food as “a menu on steroids.”

Ten Sports Grill - 1302 Main Street

When considering a local bar to watch the big game, Ten Sports Grill automatically comes to mind. This downtown hangout is known for dishing out popular pub grub with great coverage of games on large HD TVs. Honestly, isn’t that what all sports bars are about? The grill regularly puts out amazing drink and food specials during big game seasons. In 2005 Dallas Observer even voted Ten Sports Grill the “Best Place to Buy an Athlete a Drink”. Since then dozens of famous athletes have made appearances at the popular Ten Sports Grill. So next time you’re deciding on a place to watch the game, choose Ten Sports Grill. Who knows, maybe you’ll end up sharing a beer with some Dallas Cowboys.

Lakewood’s 1^st and 10 - 6465 E. Mockingbird Ln.

Warning: For intense fans only. Lakewood’s 1^st and 10 is a known neighborhood fixture with passionate and loyal sports fans. It doesn’t take long once entering to sense everyone knows everyone. The bartender, Noe, is highly acknowledged in the Dallas bar community and runs Lakewood’s 1^st and 10 with professionalism and expertise. There is plenty of seating and TVs required to create the perfect sports atmosphere for those enthralled in the game, and believe me these local patrons keep up with their scores. Come to Lakewood’s 1^st and 10 for a great sense of community and a casual atmosphere.

Nodding Donkey - 2900 Thomas Ave

Nodding Donkey is perfect for those groups that want to watch the game and those that just want to drink and hangout. This neighborhood saloon is a favorite among fellow Uptowners. What sets this sports bar apart from others is it’s entire outside patio seating. The bar is extremely laid-back with attentive and skilled servers. On a side note, their Tuesday night trivia games are definitely worth making an extra trip to the Nodding Donkey.

Milo Butterfingers - 5645 Yale Blvd

For an SMU student like myself, Milo’s is only a 5-minute drive to tons of TVs and cheap pitchers of beer. I always find myself surrounded by good company at this local bar. Milo’s is a nice venue after a long days work to sit back and watch the game. I especially like playing a competitive game of pool and trying my hand at darts on a weekday night. Be prepared for a legit dive bar when walking into Milos’s for the first time. Outdated carpet and uneven floors all add to Milo’s familiar charm.

Other great mentions....not quite sports bars but they have been FUN places to watch the Mavericks Finals, sfuzzi's and Saint Anne's courtyard!

Best Dog Parks in Dallas

It’s that time of the year again, Summertime! The perfect season to fetch your four-legged friend and head out to one of the many dog parks Dallas has to offer. Here are just a few local spots your furry friend can go to socialize and frolic in the sun:

The W Dallas Victory - 2440 Victory Park Lane

Feel free to join W Dallas - Victory on the Living Room Bar patio for Yappy Hour Wednesdays back beginning June 1 and ending June 15th. Lap up specially themed cocktails like the Chihuahua-Rita and Cosmo-Paw-Litan for only $5.00, while your pooch kicks-up his/her paws on doggie lounges and munches on specialty treats from Lucky Dog Barkery. Fido can even have every overworked/I-chased-too-many-cars-today muscle pampered with complimentary therapeutic massages by Dallas Dog Massage. Yes, not kidding. Dog. Massages.

White Rock Lake Dog Park - 8000 E Mockingbird Ln

Dallas’ first and largest city dog park has quite the popular reputation. Located in Lakewood on the historic White Rock Lake, pups have spacious grounds on which to roam and explore. The park began in 2001 with large donations from private and corporate donations, and to this day is a hotspot for dogs and their active owners. White Rock Lake Dog Park has the cutest, personable website where they spotlight individual pets monthly. Along with a small dog/large dog separation, there are several dog-related events held at White Rock each year. Some of the most memorable including, a Raise the Woof Pup Rally, concerts with agility courses, and the annual Fall Furfest.

Central Dog Park - 4711 Westside Dr

Central Dog Park resides in Highland Park, centrally located by several dog-friendly businesses. The park thinks of everything to keep your lucky pooch pampered and content. The exceptional park has several amenities including, a dog bathing station, chairs for the owners to relax, and tennis balls/other toys for use. Central Christian Church provides the off-lease dog park and regularly holds special events, concerts, and outdoor worship, which of course the furry friends are more than welcome to attend.

Downtown Dog Park - Liberty at Swiss, off Live Oak

If you’re looking for that quaint, neighborly dog park, look no further than the Downtown Dog Park. The park is a bit off the beaten path and may be difficult to find at first, but once you’ve found this dog’s quiet oasis there’s no turning back. Downtown Dog Park is carefully cleaned and well kept throughout the year to keep your most prized pup satisfied. There is also an on-leash walking path near the park, perfect for dog and owner to both get some exercise. Downtown Dog Park is a great place to spot familiar faces who frequent the park with their pups. Expect light conversation with fellow dog-passionate owners while letting your dog roam free.

Deep Ellum Dog Park - 2530 Commerce St

Located in the heart of Deep Ellum, the Deep Ellum Dog Park is the absolute perfect spot for surrounding dog lovers. Vending machine with pet items, bone-shaped benches, and free tennis balls lying around are just a few of the exciting surprises the park provides for their favorite neighborhood hounds. Just recently, The Bark Park Central hosted a pet parade at the park with optional costume, talent, and personality contests. The park is ran by friends and neighbors of the Deep Ellum Community and is always welcoming new furry additions to their prized off-lease dog park.

Why I Love Eqiunox Gym!

If you're the kind of person that can't seem to get a good workout in without a trainer this is the gym for you. The classes are amazing and you'll be pushed so hard it's like having our own personal trainer. There are also a variety of classes so not only will it keeps things fresh you'll get a better workout because you're not doing the same thing over and over again.

There are alot of creative, fun classes so you won't get bored. If you're looking for a hard core cardio workout, or a zen yoga class or a slimming "skinny jeans" class or plenty of cross fit training classes that will work strength and cardio, Equinox has it. Oh, I have yet to try the zumba class but talk about working your coordination and dance skills. Dance away to Latin inspired music and burns some calories! Leave feeling sexy or like a dork depending on how well you can keep up. Don't worry, it's not for professional dancers or anything so give it a try! I think I'll post a video of the class sometime.

Equinox Highland Park - 4023 Oak Lawn Avenue, Dallas - (214) 443-9009

Eqiunox Preston Hollow - 8611 Hillcrest Road, Dallas - (214) 265-5512

Equinox Gyms are located in various major cities all over the United States. Luckily, in Dallas we have two locations: one in the Highland Park area and the other in the Preston Hollow area. All locations offer a variety of group classes, personal training and much more. Need a new way to challenge your body? They have the perfect solution for you! Join their Pilates class which will transform your body as a whole, not independently. Equinox’s yoga will transform your body, mind and spirit with their excellent classes, and their award-winning yoga instructors. For those of you who love to be in the water, Equinox offers water workouts. Looking for high impact swim training? You can join their swim team or traditional swim classes.

Also, they offer classes for low impact workouts which are great for your knees and joints. I am sure you are thinking most gyms around the country offer these perks to their customers. However, Equinox goes above and beyond to use state of the art equipment which is comfortable and user friendly. Need to be refreshed after your workout? All locations offer a juice bar and restaurant to keep your body hydrated throughout the day. Refreshing, cool towels with eucalypus is a delicious touch of luxury, along with Aveda bath products in the baths and steam rooms in the lockers areas.

Each location also offers a spa so they can offer services of relaxation and pampering after a tough workout, what’s not to love?!