Marfa Monday: Marfa's Mysterious Lights

Marfa

It's Monday, that means Marfa facts and attractions are in our midst. Marfa is such a quirky unique town it's almost hard to not to find it completely compelling. Marfa is best know for the mysterious lights that draw in people from around the area and even from around the country. The question is: "What are they?", "Where do they come from?" Many people would think they are just car lights, aircraft lights, possibly ranch lights... Some even speculate they are sprites or another explainable light source. There are tons of different theories that overrun the internet but the lights that add to Marfa's unique thumbprint are truly amazing and add a special attraction to the area. The lights in this town are so important to the people that inhibit the area that they actually have an annual Marfa Lights Festival every September. If you are interested in reading up on this anomaly check out the various theories here.

The mysterious Marfa Lights

50 Sure Signs That Texas is Actually Utopia

Information from: http://www.buzzfeed.com/summeranne/50-sure-signs-that-texas-is-actually-utopia

Every Texan knows Texas looks like this...

Source: robotcosmonaut.tumblr.com

1. The stars at night are big and bright.  (Beauty of Texas' night skys)
2. Clear eyes, full hearts. (Friday Night Lights - Texas Football)
3. Beyonce (Houston, TX made)
4. Breakfast Tacos (Everywhere all the time)
5. Barton Springs (ATX)
6. The most authentic country and folk music (Screw Nashville - TX Country is where it is at)
7. Basketball (SA Spurs, H'town Rockets & D Mavericks)
8. Kolaches (not just in West while cruis'n 35)
9. Marfa, TX (Marfa Lights, Cobra Rock Boot Company, and more)
10. Dr. Pepper (Dr. Pepper floats are the best)
11. Whataburger (Yes, please)
12. Austin City Limits
13. The State Fair of Texas
14. Houston Astros (Throw back uniforms are legit)
15. Texas Ruby Red Grapefruit (burns calories)
16. Wildflowers (Bluebonnets)
17. Rock n Roll - Then & Now (Buddy Holly to current ATX/Denton scene)
18. Impressively bearded dudes are never short on supply (Keep Denton Beard)
19. Bats (Check out ATX Bridge at night)
20. Bush Girls 
21. LIST GOES ON >> http://www.buzzfeed.com/summeranne/50-sure-signs-that-texas-is-actually-utopia

Intro to Marfa

Welcome to Marfa: Home of the Hipsters

Marfa, Texas is a small town that is located just north of Big Bend National Park that is a hub for new and evolving Texas culture. This eclectic place in Texas is best known for the unexplained, Mysterious Marfa Lights that can be seen at night. These lights have been reported to change in color, position and intensity and are celebrated in Marfa every September for their annual Lights Festival. Marfa is also home to a growing art community that blends in with that respectable "cowboy" western culture that has been established in the town. Marfa may be a small town in Texas but it has a big personality that has developed from its unique history and intriguing current entertainment.

Come back to read up on Marfa every Monday for Marfa Monday!

Kolache Heaven

West, Texas is a small town of around 2,800 that has recently made international headlines due to the fertilizer plant explosion this past April. With such an extreme event shaking the small town to its foundation, visiting the Czech Stop in West was a hope filled trip that showed the strength and perseverance of the town.

Three months after the blast, the Czech Stop was as busy as ever, with lines spanning the width of the store, and with friendly staff serving some of the best pastries this great state has to offer. People from all around Texas, and even from other states, stop in West specifically for the goods that the Czech Stop has to offer.  With kolaches to die for, ranging from sweet to savory, and other decadent treats such as pies, and even peanut brittle, this is a stop you must make if you drive past West on the highway. After you stop here, a trip to your local doughnut shop will seem like taking a spin on the teacups after you've ridden the largest roller coaster in the park. There really is nothing like it, and it just adds to the charm of the place that you can top off on gas while you get your treats. It's a true Texas landmark, and it's in a town that is even more amazing than its pastries.

Texas Designer Style

With summer in full effect, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the heat. With 100-degree weather common throughout a large portion of Texas, it’s not difficult to find your brain playing tricks on you in the immense heat. If your car happens to break down in Valentine, Texas this summer, and you find yourself walking towards the nearest service station, don’t freak out when you see a Prada store in the middle of the desert. No, you are not hallucinating. 

Situated some 26 miles outside of Marfa, Texas, this building is a sculpture that was created to resemble a Prada store. Seemingly located next to nothing of any significance whatsoever, this landmark’s ridiculous nature makes it a must see if you are travelling to Marfa. Just remember to pack some extra water. 

What's Bigger in Texas?

Everyone always says everything is Bigger in Texas...is it true? We are gonna take a look at 10 things that are undeniably bigger in Texas thanks to http://www.buzzfeed.com/bennyjohnson/things-that-are-definitely-bigger-in-texas 


Check out the link for all 55 things that are bigger in Texas.



10. Professional Football is Bigger in Texas

9. Music Festivals are Bigger in Texas

8. Fish are Bigger in Texas

7. Modern Architecture is Bigger in Texas

6. Irony is Bigger in Texas

5. Dance Halls are Bigger in Texas

4. Margaritas are Bigger in Texas

3. Temperatures are Bigger in Texas

2. Sunsets are Bigger in Texas

1. BBQ is Bigger in Texas

The Different Sides of Texas

Where are you from? This is possibly one of the most difficult questions that someone can ask you as an American, or more specifically, as a Texan. Some will go into long, drawn out explanations about their heritage, and describe every part that comes together to make up their personal identity.  Others will simply say that they’re from a certain U.S. state. Texans however have another, more precise way to describe themselves. As Texans know, residents of Texas are Texans, but not all Texans are the same. This clip from the film Bernie quite bluntly describes the differences in Texas in a way that most Texans understand, but most non-Texans struggle to comprehend. Lets just say that not all of us are from East Texas. Some of us actually drive Mercedes', much to the dismay of the People’s Republic of Austin.  

It's All Good

Outside the cafe admiring the view

The All Good Cafe in Deep Ellum (2934 Main Street, Deep Ellum, Dallas TX) was an overall great experience. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner at this location with a variety of menu options that ranges from peppered bacon to Big Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes, to Chile Verde Pork Stuffed Sopapillas. The service was amazing with most, if not all the waiters and waitresses were laid back, hip and undeniably trendy.

Austin made its mark in a cafe all the way in Deep Ellum 

The vibe at this cafe was without a doubt had that one-of-a-kind "weird" Austin influence. They even displayed an Austin bumper sticker on on one of their glass cases. Anyone who has ever lived or visited Austin knows that walking down the streets of the city is an experience in itself. Seeing the variety of individuals and tastes in food, fashion, and music is what makes that city so influential on different parts of the state and even the country.

The ceiling from our seats

The ceiling was covered with various colorful origami swans hanging from the ceiling. It gave the place a nice unique flare because it is seldom seen in the average corner cafe. It would make sense because average is not in the vocabulary of the All Good Cafe!

The O's Thunderdog

We ended up meeting one of the employees, Taylor Young who is part of the two-man-band called The O's. This band definitely has a pleasantly unusual sound all their own that even The Dallas Observer can attest to. They had the band's song "Outlaw" featured as number 4 in "Ten Best Texas Country Songs of 2013 (so far)." We love their authentic style of music and their spin on Texas Country!

Post cards from around the world 

The cafe had a collage of post cards from places around the world displayed near the front. It is always very cool to see all the different places and various affects they have on the laid back environment. Even at the busiest points of the lunch hour the All Good Cafe holds business down as well as keeping that trendy relaxed vibe. But of course the food that the All Good Cafe serves was amazing and far from the generic bland menu of a regular cafe. All the produce that they purchase for preparing the plates are locally grown. One of their primary providers is the Dallas Farmer's Market.

Just Trendy Good Food

Local Texas produce at Whole Foods in ATX

Austin, Denton, Deep Ellum…just to mention a few, Texas has become a hot spot for indie inspired restaurants, cafes and coffee shops that let off the coolest vibes that can only be found in the heart of Texas. Local, fresh, trendy, are just a few adjectives that bring these specific places to life! We hope you all are able to check out these one-of-a-kind places and try our food recommendations.

South Congress Café

A quint, bustling café that is perfect for brunch. The atmosphere was refreshingly modern and comfortable with a right-at-home vibe throughout the cafe. The food was simply amazing and deliciously unique. This café is an absolute must when traveling to Austin or when you are new to the area. Truly an Austin-ish cafe, it lives up to owning South Congress with their name and the wonderful experience it provides.

What we had:

-Carrot Cake French Toast 

carrot cake, cinnamon vanilla egg batter, cream cheese-pecan syrup, seasonal fresh fruit

Carrot Cake French Toast and fruit

All Good Cafe

This cafe is clearly Austin inspired with an interesting decor that add personality to the location. Their fresh flare isn't only found in their interior decorating, it is also in the food! With fresh produce that is purchased from the Dallas Farmer's Market, the food is local and pleasantly fresh.

What we had:

-Chile Verde Pork Stuffed Sopapilla

Slow-Roast Pork Chile Verde stuffed in a Sopapilla, topped with lettuce, pico de gallo and cheddar cheese

All Good Cafe

Trudy’s

The atmosphere was extremely laid back and undeniably Texas! Trudy’s is where the Tex truly meets the Mex with food that is flavorful and cultural. Even the wall art that enhanced Trudy’s atmosphere matched the unique vibes that flow freely on the streets of ATX. Nothing like a true Texas vibe that made this experience at this restaurant a great one.

What we had:

-Stuffed Avocados

The famous original! A fried, breaded avocado stuffed with spiced chicken and cheese. Topped with suiza sauce and more cheese. Served with Spanish rice and refried black beans.

Stuffed Avocado, rice and black beans

Our Trudy's menu

Jupiter House Coffee

With fresh baked goods sold near the register and the unique wall art covering the walls it is almost nearly impossible to leave this coffee shop, especially with the hip music that places throughout the whole room. Some of the clever pieces of decor made the coffee shop experience a pleasure with a few little laughs. Overall Jupiter House Coffee is by far one of my favorite local coffee shops because of the relaxed artsy atmosphere and the coffee was great of course.

What we had:

Zucchini bread

Iced chai latte

The unique wall art displayed at Jupiter House Coffee

Chocolate muffin

Black coffee

Classic black coffee and chocolate muffin

Be Kind To The Hipsters

 

Food Trucks

Have you ever tried deciding on a restaurant to go eat at with friends, only to have WWIII break out on what kind of food to have that day? Well, if you’re tired of battling it out, and you happen to be in Dallas, you should check out the food truck scene at KlydeWarren Park, and at the Dallas Arts District. 

Food trucks are great alternatives to traditional restaurants since they tend to be more unique in terms of menu choices, and they are generally located in groups, so every one of your friends can order something that’s to their liking. We went to Klyde Warren Park to take a look at the growing Dallas food truck scene, and we were impressed by what we found. Klyde Warren Park is located in downtown Dallas, across from the Dallas Museum of Art. It hosts multiple food trucks, with food ranging from ice cream, to sushi, to burgers. We ordered a burger from Relish, and we sat down at some tables by the trucks to enjoy our meal while we listened to live music that was being performed in front of us on a small stage. The park was very clean, the food was excellent (you have to get the truffle fries), and overall atmosphere was extremely laid back, urban, and family friendly. So if you are ever in the mood for sushi, ice cream, a burger, or all three, Dallas food trucks are the way to go. 

Dallas Farmer's Market

We’re surrounded by the brightest colors that nature has to offer. Vibrant strawberries, bright lemons, and pineapples so sweet that your mouth puckers as you get an instant sugar rush that no

Red Bull can match. It’s all fresh, it’s all local, and it’s all located in the heart of Dallas.

Setting up the produce before opening time

The Dallas Farmer’s Market, located at 1010 S. Pearl Expressway in Dallas, is a little bit of country inside of one of the largest cities in Texas. It's not clearly visible from the street, and even when parked, it takes awhile to find exactly where the seemingly endless fresh produce stands lay. After a little searching, you find yourself facing two very large sheds that are packed with farmers selling their crops.

Early morning surveillance of the market

The paradox of fresh produce for sale within walking distance of skyscrapers gives the Dallas Farmer’s Market its unique appeal. Work on Commerce Street and fancy a fresh mango? Your wish is just a five minute bike ride away. The beauty of this urban market business model is that consumers can purchase fresh produce at a location that is very convenient due to it’s proximity to the downtown office buildings, at a very competitive price. Six dollars got TWT a pint of strawberries and a generous tray of blackberries.

Art piece 1 at farmers market

Art piece 2 at Farmer's Market

This market makes it possible for the residents of Dallas to have access to fresh, healthy food, at a price that rivals some fast food restaurants. Whether you work in Dallas and want to pick some fresh produce on the way home, or you’re visiting the the Big D and just want to check out some of the local delicacies that North Texas farmers have to offer, the Dallas Farmer’s Market is worth a look.  

Deep in Deep Ellum

Dallas Skyscrapers

Dallas being the 9th most populous city in the country and the 3rd most populous in the state, it is no surprise that this city has become best known for its iconic skyscrapers and busy streets. However, taking a walk from the corporate life of Dallas down the street to Deep Ellum there is a wildly drastic change in scenery and culture. Being so close together Dallas and Deep Ellum couldn't appear to be more different at a glance.

Deep Ellum graffiti art

The inspiration the music industry has on Deep Ellum was evident as soon as we set foot in this artistically sprayed downtown area that is largely influenced by the arts and of course the variety of unique entertainment venues nestled just east of Downtown Dallas.

Venue band listings

Venue's concert schedule for the month

Some of the more radical venues didn't have posters or announcements showcasing that month's gigs. They simply spray paint the shows that would play that month on the side of the venues.

There is really nothing like finding such diversity like a German made Volkswagen that is highlighted with Mexican print seat covers and a simple western style hat to tie it all together. Taking a walk around Deep Ellum and finding neat things in the area never fail to make a trip feel adventurous and exciting. It's like visiting an art gallery that is free and conveniently placed outside for public viewing.

Volkswagen tire in Deep Ellum

Eclectic Volkswagen parked on the side of the street

Jesse Rutherford (vocalist for The Neighbourhood) preforming at Trees

We had the chance to check out The 1975 and The Neighborhood putting on a show at Trees. This trendy venue is a hot spot for some of the biggest names in music. Trees lives up to its name with tree-like support beams that add an organic and hip vibe to the space. With a bar to the back of the venue it is a ideal place to see your favorite indie band with an active audience in an intimate setting. The added details of posters and decor that cover the brick walls are truly cool and combine to create a one of a kind atmosphere that can only be found in the depths of Deep Ellum.

Witnessing the variety of diversity in the weird, the interesting and the trendy makes is what makes Texas, Texas.

"The Prophets of Smoked Meat" by Daniel Vaughn (The BBQ Snob)

The Book

Daniel Vaughn (or as many know him "The BBQ Snob") has been on a very long journey to get to where he is at today.  We are not talking about the 10,343 miles, 35 days or 135 barbecue joints conquered to be able to write his book.  We are talking about the journey taken while writing his blog "Full Custom Gospel BBQ" as a full time architect.  His experiences and credibility allowed him the opportunity to be published as the first book under Anthony Bourdain's publishing line.  This opened the door to Daniel Vaughn being hired by Texas Monthly Magazine to serve as the world's first full time Barbecue Editor.

Daniel can be quite brutal with his reviews of barbecue joints, but it comes from his experience and sound understanding of what it takes to create the art of barbecue.  This is how he has developed the reputation as the "BBQ Snob".

Jeb & Brian hanging with Daniel

The TWT team had the honor of being invited to the VIP book signing party in Dallas.  While at this event we had the opportunity to meet some of the Texas pitmasters while they were serving their legendary smoked meat specialties: Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue, Justin Fourton of Pecan Lodge, Will Fleischman of Lockhart Smokehouse, and Tim Byres of Smoke.  Also in attendance was Mr. Garrison of Garrison Brothers Distillery, the crew from Four Corners Brewery and the owners of Swiss Pastry Shop of Fort Worth. It goes without saying that the food and drink options were delicious.

Daniel Vaughn and his talented photographer Nicholas McWhirter are first class people that know how to throw a party.  We would highly recommend that you check out their book and purchase a shirt!

Brian hanging with Aaron Franklin

Food from Tim Byres of Smoke

Swiss Pastry Shop Crew

Perfect brisket from Franklin's Barbecue

The Prophets of Smoked Meat Shirt

Zane Williams - "Overnight Success"

Sporting a TWT tee on stage
at Lone Star Bar in Midland.

This Abilene native can be seen playing at local spots such as Cadillac Pizza in McKinney or even on the television show, Troubadour, TX.  His latest album "Overnight Success" came out in May 2013 and is getting stellar reviews.  If you enjoy a little Americana music, then you need pick up this album.  Zane is a great guy, family man and fantastic performer.

As Justin Frazell noted on his blog TXRDR, "All things said, Zane Williams "Overnight Success" in my opinion, is a stellar record. If you have a pocket full of change I would strongly suggest you invest your money in the CD and let your ears, heart and soul reap the benefits. By all means go see Zane Williams LIVE."

Zane's Website >>
Zane's Facebook >> 

Josh Abbott Band- My Texas

Josh Abbott Band
My Texas lyrics

Songwriters: ABBOTT, JOSH/SHEPHERD, THOM

If you haven't climbed up to Enchanted Rock,
Drank a cold Shiner down in Luckenbach,
Taken your baby to the River Walk,
Then you ain't met My Texas yet.

If you haven't floated down the 'Ol Frio,
Heard Red Dirt music on your radio,
Eaten Cooper's down in Llano,
Then you ain't met My Texas yet.

You haven't been to the Houston rodeo,
Sang "Carry On" at a Pat Green show,
If you ain't seen an Abilene sunset,
Then you ain't met My Texas yet.

If you never caught a trout down in Port A,
Heard the words to Corpus Christi Bay,
Never seen fireworks on PK,
Then you ain't met My Texas yet.

Haven't had a kolache when you go through West,
Never heard of the Larry Jo Taylor fest,
Think polished pop country crap sounds the best,
Then you ain't met My Texas yet.

You haven't been to the Ft. Worth stock show,
Sang along with Cory Morrow,
You ain't seen a hill country sunset,
Then you ain't met My Texas yet.

You say you haven't hiked through Big Bend,
Had your hair blown back by a Lubbock wind,
Been somewhere where they call you "friend",
Then you ain't met My Texas yet.

You haven't been to the San Antone
Rodeo,
Sang "Everclear" at a Creager show,
If you ain't seen an El Paso sunset,
Then you ain't met My Texas yet.

No, you ain't met My Texas yet!