Tip Toe Photography | San Antonio Baby, Children, and Family Photographer

Posted on December 4, 2011 by *Geekette*

When Beth, of Tip Toe Photography, offered me a complementary mini-session (also look at her “belly to baby” and “baby’s first year” packages as well as different sessions) I knew that I would get some amazing pictures of my daughter. Little did I know though HOW absolutely fantastic they would be. With an artistic eye and quick trigger finger, she snapped up 15 of the best pictures of Jaden (and with some convincing a couple of Jaden with me). To be honest I had a couple tears in my eyes when she posted the pictures that night. They all looked very natural (even though Jaden doesn’t normally feel at ease in front of the camera.)

Website:
http://www.tiptoephotography.net

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/TipToePhotography

In a remote field, just outside of Boerne, with a SUV parked nearby that she transported her beautiful suede couch in, Beth captured the moments I knew existed but I never had been able to catch before. (Another plus, she delivered them without any prompting from me! She just knew!)

When I received the cd with all the pictures, it came in an adorable cd sleeve with detailed printing recommendations (see her interview below for more details!) If I haven’t convinced you to give Beth a call to book your session immediately, her interview responses will! She talks about what led her start the business she passionately loves, suggestions for keeping photo sessions natural, best outfits to wear for sessions, and much more.

Beth is very laid back, your entire family will feel at ease as she patiently the moments you’ll want to remember and cherish for forever. As someone who had never hired a professional photography, I never realized how much of a good investment you are making.

Check out her beautiful portfolios of children, families, maternity, and newborns to see the different techniques and styles she leverages during her sessions. LOVE them all!

*Click on any of the images for more detailed, related information.

Beth pictured below with her two precious babies:

From her blog, she immediately posted sessions the day of with a couple more pictures to follow the next day of our mini session.

Did you grow up wanting to be a photographer? What did you originally want to do?

When I was younger, I don’t think I ever really knew what I wanted to be. I’ve always loved photography, to be honest, but never thought about making it into a career. I went to college and got my degree in business and then went to culinary school where I became a pastry chef. But then I realized I only really enjoyed baking for my family and friends, so I never made a career out of it. It was only after my daughter was born that I realized how much I truly loved photography and set out to learn as much as possible.

What is some “standard” advice you give people before to prepare for their first session?

Advice I give before their first session is mostly related to clothing! Nothing matchy-matchy because not many people look back on pictures where they’re all wearing the same thing and are thrilled with them. My photography is all about a family being themselves, so I don’t want anything too manicured, too perfect. I want to take the pictures that you look back on and remember just being yourself with the ones you love, so don’t worry if your baby has her hand in her mouth all the time because she’s teething or your toddler is running around crazy while I’m trying to take pictures – those are the memories you’ll want in ten years.

What do you think about as your photographing your clients?

As I’m photographing, I’m mostly just thinking about technical aspects of pictures. I keep reassuring people to just be themselves and don’t worry about the rest, that’s my job!

It must help to have a supportive husband! Does he enjoy being a model?

My husband is definitely not a model for me, lol. He much prefers being behind the camera with me to grab the attention of our less-than-cooperative children while I take their pictures. He’s a wonderful support system and I would never have come so far without him. He is my best friend and my biggest fan.

What outfits photograph the best?

Outfits that photograph the best definitely depend on the person wearing them. It’s completely case-by-case. If you’re a mom to a one week old and we’re doing the newborn session, I always recommend you don’t dress up in a fancy dress and put on all of your make up – there’s nothing less realistic than a well-rested new mom, lol. For newborn parents, I always strive to have them wear something very simple and comfortable – plain black or white shirts that will leave the focus on baby. For families, something coordinated but not matching. In this time of year, navy, maroon, browns and creams all go together well. Or you could change it up and go all bright, retro colors like oranges and teals. Yellow and gray is an awesome combo right now (and what we did when we had our family pictures taken in the spring!). Some people like to get dressed up for pictures, others like to wear something similar to their every day garb – it’s all about how YOU feel comfortable and how you want to remember yourself in pictures. Of course, letting your 3 year old pick out his or her own outfit is always fun and exciting too )

Thanks to the information you provided with our photo cd, I now understand that not all print developers were created equally. What are some of your favorites?

For clients, I usually recommend mpix for printing. The quality is not going to be quite the same as prints that I do for clients, but they are still good and reasonably priced. Never, ever use your drugstore or grocery store. All printers are NOT created equal.

With the holidays coming up, do you offer any personalized gifts for purchase with the sessions. Do you have any suggestions or favorites?

With the holidays, lots of people love giving mini accordion albums. They’re 3×3 albums that fold accordion style and have between 7 and 10 images in them. They’re adorable and make awesome little gifts for grandparents, aunts and uncles. Of course my absolutely favorite idea for gifts is the Organic Bloom frames that I sell. These frames are completely awesome and make a real statement. Then there’s always the classic gallery wrapped canvas, one of my other favorites )

Some Tip Toe Photography products:

Gallery Wrap Canvas
are
dramatic, with the image printed onto a piece of canvas and then stretched over a 1.5? thick wooden frame:

Tip Toe Photography | San Antonio Baby, Children, and Family Photographer Photo Canvas

Check out 28 variations/examples of the Mini Accordion Albums:

Tip Toe Photography | San Antonio Baby, Children, and Family Photographer Mini Accordian photo albums

Example of the Organic Bloom frames and the incredible customizations included:

2011 Frost | Westin La Cantera

Posted on November 26, 2011 by *Geekette*

For people living in Sam Antonio or just visiting, the winter holidays are one of the best times of years. One family tradition we have enjoyed for the past two years is provided by the Westin La Cantera. This luxurious resort paints a beautifully festive backdrop to kick off the yuletide season with plenty for families, couples, and friends to do.

During a complimentary “mommy bloggers” preview, my daughter and I, her best friend’s family, and a couple other families were able to see firsthand all the excitement and Christmas spirit the Westin is returning to the Hill Country.

When: Nov. 18th through Jan. 8

Where: Westin La Cantera | 16641 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78256

Phone: (210) 558-6500

Website: http://www.westinlacantera.com/holidays.html

The fun kicks off with Frost – imagine be able to skate outside on a 1,200-square-foot synthetic outdoor iceless skating rink, whether it’s in the 20s or 80s!

This activity is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Cost is $10 for 45 minutes of skating and skate rental.

*A portion of the proceeds will go to the George Gervin Youth Center, Inc.

**Guests who skate will instantly be included in a prize drawing. The grand prize includes: a 2-night stay, daily breakfast for two at Brannon’s Café and a personalized memento from Spurs legend George “Iceman” Gervin

Santa’s Workshop

When: Dec. 13 to Dec. 24

Drop by Santa’s Workshop where guests or locals can take a photo with Santa, make a holiday toy or decorate cookies with the elves. A portion of the proceeds will go to a local charity.

Legendary Holidays

When: Dec. 13 to Dec. 24

The resort’s 13th annual Legendary Holidays program is sure to dazzle kids of every age. This one-hour resort tradition takes place daily at 5 p.m. Guests are guided around the property by the popular storyteller, Bandera Cowboy ‘Makin’ Dust’, who sings and tells holiday stories.

The program concludes with ‘snow’ magically falling from the sky as the choir begins to sing a holiday song at the top of Plaza San Saba.

Holiday Menu and Cocktails

Celebrate the season with culinary delights, including a special Thanksgiving Day Brunch as well as delectable Christmas and New Year’s Eve menu selections.

The Magik Theatre

San Antonio’s local children theater presents a holiday comedy “The Pirate’s Holiday”!

Cost is $5.00 for adults; children under 3 are free.

Shows start at 7:30 p.m. The kids (ages from 3-8) and the adults (slightly older) in our group all laughed throughout the show, everyone having a TON of fun!

December: 12/3, 12/10, 12/16, 12/17, 12/19 through 12/23
December: Special show times on 12/17 at 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Arrive 30 minutes early, seating is limited.
The show is 45 minutes long.

Below are some more pictures from our visit!

Eversave San Antonio

Posted on November 18, 2011 by *Geekette*

Does anyone here like to win free stuff?! (I know I do!!)

Thanks to Eversave San Antonio, one of my fabulous readers is going to walk away with a gift certificate to Dallia’s Hair and Nail Studio ($55 value!!)

Multiple Ways to Enter and Win:

Simply leave a comment at the end of this blog post on which local San Antonio restaurant or retailer you’d like to see featured on Eversave next!
Tweet: I want to win an @EversaveSAT deal on @geekettebits.com! Pls RT! http://bit.ly/tsnVtW #gbcontest
Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/geekettebits
Become a Fan on Facebook: http://facebook.com/geekettebitsfan
Tag “Geekette Bits” in a wall post on Facebook with a link to this blog post!

** All winners must have already signed up for Eversave San Antonio! **

Did you know?? Eversave San Antonio:

Local deals offered DAILY! National deals offered as well!
Get $2 off coupon just for signing up today!
Convince you’re friends to sign up too, you’ll get $10 for EACH friend as soon as they make their first Eversave purchase!

Become a fan on Facebook:

Follow their tweets, @EversaveSAT:

The winner will be selected randomly on Tuesday, November 22! Check back to see if you won!

Tejas Rodeo Company | Bulverde, TX

Posted on October 9, 2011 by *Geekette*

This past Saturday, my family enjoyed visiting the Tejas Rodeo Company’s Saturday rodeo with 6 other families from work. We all had children ranging in ages from preschool through elementary school. EVERYONE had a blast! As someone who (proudly) did NOT grow up in Texas, I don’t always agree with everyone’s Texas-sized ideas of fun. This was a blast though. Rodeo events running from March through November each year, is a must do for anyone living near San Antonio.

The actual rodeo starts at 7pm on Saturday nights with live music to follow, around 930pm. The tickets were a very reasonable $10 each with discounts for children and military. Details here. The gates actually open at 5pm and we got there around 6:30pm. That gave us a chance to secure premium seating and get some grub before the long lines formed. I have it on good authority that while the actual rodeo is going on, the lines take forever! They do have a loud speaker to let you know when you’re food is ready, as long as you’re listening for your name you should be fine. And get the fries, they’re the slender, crispy kind. Addicting!

The rodeo started at 7pm and lasted through 9pm with bull riding, barrel races (even some 7 year old competitors!), mutton races (children riding buckin’ sheep!), and a calf run where children under 12 years old are invited to chase calves with tickets pinned to their tails. Children who capture the flag get free McDonalds kid meals! All the girls in our group had a blast during this event, even a little girl, originally scared of horses!

Don’t let the small town feel fool you. The cowboys and cowgirls had impressive resumes as long as the food lines! Many had awards and prizes from the prominent, national rodeo circuits and one cowgirl had been inducted not once but twice into the Cowgirl Hall of Fame. The kids stood on the fences around the rodeo, with cowboys bringing their horses up close for some petting love.

In the middle of the rodeo, they announced a woman winning a free steak dinner at the next door steakhouse. They then proceeded to surprise the wife of a soldier, deployed to Iraq but on leave for two weeks with her husband! They just hugged and hugged while the audience gave them a standing ovation. Not only did they pay tribute to the military with this, at the beginning they also prayed over the event and asked God to keep the soldiers and their families safe. Very sweet and something you might not get at the big time rodeo productions.

Website: http://www.tejasrodeo.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TejasRodeo

Address: 401 Obst Road, Bulverde, TX 78163

Phone: 830-980-2226

Event Calendar: http://www.tejasrodeo.com/calendar.php

Tejas Rodeo Company | Bulverde, TX

Francesca’s at Sunset | Westin La Cantera

Posted on July 31, 2011 by *Geekette*

One of my favorite recent experiences (complimentary, courtesy of the Westin La Cantera) received from our staycation at the Westin La Cantera (more posts to come!!!) was the two intimate hours spent in the kitchen of Francesca’s at Sunset with executive chef John Armstrong and chef de cuisine Ernie Estrada. This restaurant is opened daily from 6pm to 10pm and offers “South Texas cuisine with a Southwestern flair”. The chefs pride themselves on their menu items almost all containing “Farm to Table” ingredients provided by local Central and South Texas farmers and ranchers.

This fabulously romantic restaurant has so much heart behind it in the kitchen. You would not believe how welcomed and gracious Chef Armstrong and Chef Estrada were to our small group. We bombarded them with every question we could come up with and they answered them all in strides and smiles, welcoming us to ask more by emailing them anytime (like other frequent patrons already do!) Everything we ate that afternoon tasted as good as it looked and will definitely remain a top 10 memory in my mind. The chefs offer frequent opportunities to meet with them on a more personal level at the restaurant and we all felt truly welcomed into their world.

*Brunch menu found here (served Sundays from 10:30am-2pm)!

How Francesca’s got her name?

This restaurant has an equally passionate story behind its namesake. There’s a Wild West legend that involves a young man named Ferenor who was preparing to enter into priesthood by taking his final vows when he met and fell in love with a beautiful girl named Francesca’s, who returned his love. Dismissed by the leaders in the church, they ran away together, unfortunately straying from the path and becoming lost. Leaving Francesca to find help from a light in the short distance, Ferenor never found the light or help that eventually diminished. In his hast to return to Francesca, Ferenor lost consciousness when he struck his head on a rock after stumbling in the darkness. Regaining consciousness the next morning, he found the village searching for himself and Francesca. Setting out in search of Francesca again, neither Ferenor nor Francesca was ever found again.

Luckily our love affair with Francesca’s kitchen was more lucky and we started with Peach cider with grill roasted peaches, pecan oil, and a micro arugula salad:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - local cooking ingredients

Chef Armstrong patiently explained how to prepare everything:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - san antonio brunch

Including the rub he quickly made:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - servers brunch in san antonio

With the paprika he brought from his home kitchen since they didn’t have any at the restaurant that day:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - local cooking ingredients

To how to sear the peaches:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - romantic dining

He also explained that micro arugala was just arugula that was harvested when it was in it’s infant stages of growth:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - romantic dining

Plating the beautiful salad with a sample of locally made peach cidar.

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - romantic dining

And happily marched to one of Francesca’s long-time favorite staple menu items: Francesca’s Guajillo Chile Rubbed Filet of Beef

We did a sniff taste in the kitchen to figure out the ingredients below (that included chipotle chiles, corriander, carmelized onions, cipotle, burgundy, and roasted tomato):

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - romantic dining

The locally grown and butchered filet mignons:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - San Antonio restaurant

Rubbed down with a few different spices:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - San Antonio romantic restaurant

And enhanced after being grilled with a veal reduction (that was homemade and reduced for over 18 hours!!!)

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - San Antonio restaurant

Topped with a fabulous southwestern queso fresco and micro cilanotro.

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - Chef John Armstrong

Perfection on a platter.

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - Chef Ernie Estrada

Brioche French Toast stuffed with blueberries and bananas with pecan maple syrup:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - Family Restaurant

Homemade brioche bread (which I enthusiastically believe makes for the BEST French toast ever!!)

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - San Antonio vacation

The chef sliced bananas and combined with fresh blueberries in a bowl, mashing them together:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - romantic San Antonio restaurant

Which would be stuffed into the bread later:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - San Antonio dining

We got to use tasting spoons to sample the batter that included a tasty standard recipe kicked up a notch with heavy cream, egg, sugar, Tahitian vanilla bean, and rum:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - San Antonio restaurant

The maple syrup also included pecans and bananas:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - San Antonio restaurant

The bread was sliced thickly so that the chef could slice in half and then stuff the seasonal fruit in:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - hill country restaurant

Pressed down and sealed in once stuffed:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - San Antonio resort restaurant

And then submerged in the batter for several minutes:

Francesca’s | Westin La Cantera - San Antonio tourist restaurant

Cooked on a hot skillet:

Francesca’s restaurant | Westin La Cantera

And toasted to perfection:

Francesca’s restaurant | Westin La Cantera

Drizzle and server…voila!!

Francesca’s restaurant | Westin La Cantera

2011 Lemonade Day San Antonio

Posted on April 4, 2011 by *Geekette*

Last year was the first time San Antonio, TX participated in Lemonade Day. While their goal was 1,500 kids participating, San Antonio had 3,300 participants, the most every for an inaugural city! In 2011, their goal is 7,500! On May 1, 2011, any kid (or young at heart) is encouraged to not only open a lemonade stand but pick up the FREE backpack ahead of time. It includes information for kids and parents about planning and becoming a young entrepreneur.

The City of San Antonio passed a health ordinance on March 3rd waiving the temporary food establishment permit requirement for children and youth participating on May 1^st!

Website:
http://sanantonio.lemonadeday.org/

2010 Lemonade Day in San Antonio

Last year the average stand was open for 4 hours and 51 minutes. In that time the average profit was $73.00
In 2010 over 70% of profits were donated to charity
Last year’s most successful stand in San Antonio made over $600!

Twitter:
http://twitter.com/ldaysa

Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/LemonadeDaySA

Online Resources:

Facebook app and more games here
Teacher Guides here
Compete for prizes this year!

2010 Lemonade Stand Map | San Antonio, TX

Backpack Pickup Locations

Register online or pick up your FREE 2011 Lemonade Day backpack full of educational information and coupons for kids and parents! Different bags for different age groups, pick up at any of the following events:

San Antonio Library at any time starting April 4^th, Library locations click here.

What

Where

When

Fiesta de los Niños

Parade at noon

Featuring middle school bands, elementary school students, Port San Antonio employees, SAFD fire truck, & lots more.

Rides, games, food, entertainment and lots of fun!!!!

200 Donald Goodrich Rd

San Antonio, TX | Map

Saturday, April 9,

10:00am-7:00pm

KidsDay in the Park

Free event for parents and children age 10 and under

San Pedro Springs Park | Map

Saturday, April 9, 2011

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Kids’ Kingdom @ King William’s Fair

Kids’ Kingdom is the child centered park area in the King William Fair, features “kid” friendly attractions with games and carnival attractions. Activities include free arts and crafts by Mission Trail and other community groups

1032 S. Alamo Street San Antonio, TX 78210 | Map

Saturday, April 16,

10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

3^rd Annual San Antonio Youth Summit

Small group sessions on important social issues in San Antonio with panel discussions with community leaders on how to build for a better future.

Motivational speakers and workshops on preparing for the future

200 E Market St

San Antonio, Texas 78205 | Map

Tuesday, April 5, 2011 8am-4pm

Valero Go! Challenge

Alamo Dome

100 Montana St.

San Antonio, TX 78203 | Map

Sunday, April 10, 2011

12 noon – 3 p.m.

San Antonio Zoo

San Antonio Zoo

3903 North St. Mary’s St,

San Antonio, TX 78212 | Map

Sunday, April 10, 2011

9am—12pm

2011 Lemonade Day San Antonio, san antonio locations whataburger pick up

San Antonio Whataburgers

Saturday, April 23, 2011

2—5pm

Charlotte’s Web

Showing at the Magik Theatre from April 6 through May 7^th.

420 South Alamo

San Antonio, TX 78205 | Map

Friday, April 22, 2011

6-8:30pm

Saturday, April 23, 2011

1?3:30pm

Valentine’s Day Menus and Specials | San Antonio, TX

Posted on February 2, 2011 by *Geekette*

Visiting San Antonio for Valentine’s Day? Live here and looking for places to go? Where else can you enjoy course after course of great Mexican food or have the option to dine with the sea life at SeaWorld San Antonio in an elegant, intimate setting? February 14, 2011 is coming up quickly! Sign up for email alerts from your favorite restaurants to get coupons and hear about all the specials. I have collected some of my favorites below.

Where:
SeaWorld San Antonio Valentine’s Dinner

What: $150.00 per couple, intimate, romantic Valentine’s buffet dinner adorned with candlelight, music, flowers, sensational food. Watch the gracefulness of stingrays, sharks and other sea life in this unique dining experience around the largest coral reef exhibit in San Antonio.

When: Feb. 13, 6-8pm

Where:
Acenar

What: 3 Course Menu Prix Fixe Menu or A La Carte, menu here

When: Served Feb 11-14

Where:
Outback Steakhouse

What: Dinner for two includes Bloomin’ Onion, two 8oz Outback Special® Sirloins, Side & Signature Salad per person, Cheesecake to share

When: Served Feb 11-14

Where:
Morton’s Steakhouse

What: Steak and Seafood, a special three-course menu for two

When: Served Feb 11-14

Where:
Maggiano’s

What: 4 course meal including dessert and a drink, $79/couple

When: Served Feb 10-14

Where:
Max’s Wine Dive

What: 3 course meal, $49 per person; $69 pp w/ wine pairings

When: Served Valentine’s Day weekend

Where:
Aldaco’s

What: 4 course meal, $45 pp

Where:
Waffle House

What: Romantic, candlelit dinner for two

When: Feb 14

Where:
Choicolates Artisan Chocolate

What: Orange crème and dark chocolate hearts

When: Sunday, Feb. 13th (noon – 5pm); Monday, 14th (10am – 6pm)

Where:
Houlihans

What: $27.95 pp menu

When: Served Feb 11-14

Where: Zinc Bistro and Wine Bar

What: Paella for Two

When: Feb 12-14

Where:
Boudro’s

What: $34 Duet of Beef and Lobster

When: Feb 12-14

Where:
Coco Chocolate Lounge & Bistro

What: 5 course fixed menu for $65

When: Feb. 14

2011 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

Posted on February 1, 2011 by *Geekette*

The 2011 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo starts this Thursday, February 3, 2011!

Website: http://www.sarodeo.com

Twitter: @SanAntonioRodeo

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sarodeo

Download Schedule of Events.

Calendar of Deals and Special Offers:

Legend	Date	Special Offer
	Feb. 3	1^st day of the rodeo!
	Feb. 4, 11, 18	Dollar Days! Every Friday, $1 admission from 8am-5pm. Rides, hot dogs, and soda only $1 all day!
	Feb. 8, 15	Senior Day – FREE admission for seniors! 55+
	Feb. 7, 14	Free nachos w/ purchase of 2 tickets for Monday performances. Must pick up at ATT Center Southwest Ticket Office.
	Feb. 3, 10, 17	College days! Free grounds admission w/ college ID.
	Feb. 4, 11, 18	Military Days! Free grounds admission w/ valid military ID.
	Feb. 20	Family Day! $1 ground admissions, $5 discount parking, $25 carnival wristbands, discounted food!
	Feb. 20	Last day of the rodeo.

*Additional details here.

Special Offers on Food:

Driving Directions here:

Dust & Bubbles

Valentine’s Day, Monday, February 14

Treat someone special to a VIP rodeo:

Dust and Bubbles includes a ticket to the Party Suite on the Terrence Club level
Rodeo and concert
Reserve parking pass
Brunch served in party suite catered by Levy Services
Premium champagnes and Sparkling wines will be served

Texas de Brazil San Antonio

Posted on January 6, 2011 by *Geekette*

I’ve never been one to say no to a GREAT deal so when I heard about Texas de Brazil’s special, I had to check out San Antonio’s newest Brazilian steakhouse. The San Antonio location just opened for dinner the first time in December 28, 2010. There are over 15 locations around the US and internationally!

January 2011 Special

Through the month of January 2011, Texas de Brazil is offering dinners the following INCREDIBLE couple’s special at $74 per couple:

Dinner for Two, normally $40 each
Dessert for Two, (choices included pies below, Papaya ice cream, and decadent creme brulee)
Bottle of Wine or Champagne (including delicious Chilean wine)
Non-alcoholic beverages (regular ice tea, soda or coffee)

6 of us went and took advantage of this incredible offer.

Other Discounts

According to their website, Texas de Brazil also offers:

Senior Citizens Discount – 10% off regular dinner price for up to 8 guests. 65 years or older.
Military Discount – 15% discount off regular dinner price for military members or veterans, valid up to 8 guests.
E-club - sign up here and also get a coupon for 25% off your entire meal!

The Food

We loved the lobster bisque, cheesy bread rolls, incredible meats! The traditional Brazilian seasoning style that includes covering the meat w/ rock salts while it cooked was used leaving tasty meats. Some of the meats easily picked up the salt, if the meat is too salty, consider ordering their cooked to order steaks, done to internal preference and with or without salt.

Salad area included mixed greens, seasonal veggies, homemade soups, imported cheeses and bread
Meats included my favorite (lamb chops), everyone else’s favorite (Picanha – garlic marinated house steak), Brazilian sausage, pork ribs, bacon-wrapped filet mignon, and much more!
Desserts included papaya creme, bananas foster pie, chocolate mousse cake (AMAZING!), creme brulee, key lime pie, and many more options.

Parking

Had no trouble parking downtown, one couple used the valet, right next to the restaurant, the other two couples parked in the Travis parking garage next to the Majestic theater and walked less than 2 blocks to dinner.

The Wine

Below also is a picture of the wine aerialist who deftly soared through the winery, flipping around while she retrieved wines, hand picked by the staff and guests. There was also beautiful rooms for private events as well.

Website: http://www.texasdebrazil.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/texasdebrazil

San Antonio Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Texas-de-Brazil-San-Antonio/176878792325203

Windcrest Christmas Lights | San Antonio, TX

Posted on December 25, 2010 by *Geekette*

So, I should be ashamed because after living in San Antonio, TX since 2001-ish, I have never been to drive through the Windcrest Light Up (link to official website…) and marvel at the Christmas lights. This year’s Light Up theme was “A Star-Studded Christmas” and there were tons of “stars”! One yard boosted everyone from the Beatles to basketball players and everyone in between! One house had music that you could tune into while you watched the lights flash in time w/ the music.

WARNING: I went on Christmas night and it was pretty bumper to bumper. Some people walked through the neighborhood which was fairly good sized. I know though, the people walking made GREAT time and although they may have been chilly, they would have enjoyed the lights far more quickly than anyone sitting in traffic. I’m not sure how residents deal w/ the traffic, Fenwick was bumper to bumper for 45 minutes! Bring snacks, activities, and don’t go before the kids have gone to the restroom. The lights were incredible and even the side streets w/o winners had many neighbors in the holiday spirit.

Check out the google map below, based on the winners list found on the website, I have plotted where each of the houses is for easy Garmin GPS entry.

According to their website, the City’s official map of the lighted neighborhood is here.

View 2010 Windcrest Christmas Lights – San Antonio, TX in a larger map

City of Windcrest

Twitter: http://twitter.com/CityofWindcrest

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/City-of-Windcrest/356850095710

Frost at the Westin La Cantera

Posted on December 21, 2010 by *Geekette*

The holidays are sweeping the Hill Country by storm. First stop on Santa’s sleigh? The Westin La Cantera!

Legendary Holidays

December 13 through December 24: Join Bandera-native and storyteller and singer “Makin’ Dust”. When: Nightly, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Where: Gather in Tio’s Lobby Lounge, outdoor walking tour.

Celebrando Navidad

The Esparza library converts into a folkloric-themed gathering spot for holiday story book readings.

When: Monday – Friday at 3:00 pm; Saturday & Sunday at 11:00 am and 3:00 pm

Enjoy light refreshments like Mexican Hot Chocolate and Churros!

Frost

November 18 through January 8, enjoy outdoors ice skating from 11am through 8pm.

“Is it real ice? No. The skating surface is constructed of a unique, environmentally sound, Hybrid-ice®. It is made of a non-toxic mixture of recyclable plastics and polymers.”

You can bring your own ice skates or borrow a pair while you enjoy the magic of Christmas. The cost is $10 for 45 minutes!

Westin La Cantera Frost Menu

Look for my blog post about Frost’s Tasting Menu!

Family Activities

Trip to the “North Pole” – Westin Kids Club converts to the North Pole from 11/18/10 to 1/8/11, where kids can create seasonal arts and crafts. Daily from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Santa’s Workshop (in the San Augustin room 12/13 to 12/24) to make a personal keepsake holiday toy with the elves.

North Pole at Westin La Cantera

Visit Santa (San Lorenzo room 12/13 to 12/24 from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm).

Decorate cookies (San Jacinto room 12/13 to 12/24).

Nutcracker

A holiday comedy performed by The Magik Theatre. 7:30 pm on November 20, 27 and December 4, 11 and 18. Cost is $5.00 for adults; children under 5 are free. Cash or room charge only.

Toys for Tots

The Westin La Cantera Resort is proud to be a drop off location for Toys for Tots again this year.

Bring a new and unwrapped gift to The Westin La Cantera Resort for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to collect and distribute as Christmas gifts to needy children in our community.

Westin La Cantera Social Networks:

Twitter: http://twitter.com/westinlacantera

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/westinlacantera

Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Marathon and Half Marathon

Posted on October 9, 2010 by *Geekette*

Although I’m one of the physically in-active people that I know (and I know a lot of inanimate nerds…), I thought it would be helpful to post information about the 3^rd annual Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Marathon and half marathon and of course, I found a deal!

10.10.10 Promotion – save $20 on ANY* race in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series!

10.10.10 promotion for rock n roll marathon - save $20 on race registration!

*In honor of 10/10/10, register on October 10, 2010 from 10 am PST – 10 pm PST with online code SAVEON10!

WebSite: http://san-antonio.competitor.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/RnRSanAntonio

Twitter: http://twitter.com/RunRocknRoll

Event Date: November 14, 2010

Start Line Village: Lion’s Field at Broadway Street and Mullberry

Start Location: Broadway Street and Millrace Ave.

Finish Location: Cherry Street – behind the Alamodome- Parking Lot C

Register Online by Nov. 11, 2010 and confirm registration here.

Interesting Bits:

Check out all the bands along the courses! Here… for the complete list.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure: 86-cents of each dollar raised toward funding valuable research and community outreach programs.

Now Kids Can Rock, too!

Register kids for the 2nd Annual ING KiDS ROCK San Antonio presented by YMCA, a non-timed, non-competitive fun run for children in grades K – 5!

Date: Saturday, November 13, 2010
Location: Brackenridge Park/San Antonio Zoo- Course Map

Participants Receive:

Official race number
T-shirt
Race goodie bag
Colorful finisher’s medal post-race refreshments
FREE admission to the San Antonio Zoo after the race

Kid’s Registration Deadlines:

Online – Nov. 7, 2010
One day in-person – Registration WILL be available at the Health & Fitness Expo on Friday, November 12

The Lodge at Castle Hills

Posted on August 26, 2010 by *Geekette*

Tasty Byte: The Lodge at Castle Hills

Website: http://www.thelodgerestaurant.com

Address: 1746 Lockhill Selma | San Antonio, TX, 78213 { MAP }

Phone: 210.349.8466

Restaurant Week – Lunch – Menu

The second you drive onto the lavish grounds of The Lodge, the noise from the city and life in general quickly fades. You’re struck by the spacious mansion and green landscaping. Finally getting to visit during lunch, during Restaurant Week no less !!!, I was not disappointed. Celebrating my birthday there a couple years ago and enjoying on of their opulent 7 course menus on another visit, I was curious as to the ambiance and food mid-day.

The restaurant was fully bustling when we arrived at noon…I would definitely recommend reservations. Some of the other stops during Restaurant Week did not require them but this one is not one to chance.

We waited semi-patiently for a couple minutes in their plush , rustic lounge area before being led up the winding staircase through several different smaller rooms. We were sat in a bright, open table with windows on 3 sides of us.

With 2 choices for each course and math minors on our diplomas, my friend and I quickly calculated getting of each dish. The lobster-shrimp bisque was hearty and satisfying. The mixed green salad that included apples, candied pecans, cherve goat cheese, and a vinaigrette was a playful interpretation of a classic with the flavors dancing happily together.

The main course, a choice of chicken roulade or Atlantic salmon were both enticing choices. The salmon had an incredible taste and texture and left us guessing what patient steps the chef carefully executed. The chicken with pearl onions and wild mushrooms was juicy and delicious.

The dessert was an apple tart and nutella-dark chocolate souffle . The souffle, rich, and laden with chocolate on chocolate, paired with a banana caramel milkshake! The tart was accompanied w/ a sharp house made caramel sauce that made the dish pop.

For $15, this meal was a steal. Fortunately you won’t be limited to thievery to only this week – The Lodge servers lunch, 2 courses for $12 dollars and 3 courses for $16 on a daily basis.

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/San-Antonio-TX/The-Lodge-Restaurant/125358970821184

Twitter: http://twitter.com/thelodgesa

Tre Trattoria | San Antonio TX

Posted on August 26, 2010 by *Geekette*

Tasty Byte: Tre Trattoria

Website: http://tretrattoria.com

Address: 4003 Broadway | San Antonio, TX 78209 { MAP }

Phone: 210.805.0333

Restaurant Week – Lunch – Menu

*Restaurant Week menus are not posted online but similar to 3 course mentioned on Lunch and Dinner menus

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TreTrattoria

Twitter: http://twitter.com/tretrattoria

Tre Trattoria was a little hard to find once we got into the Broadway shopping center, right next to the Witte on the same side of Broadway. We did get a nice scenic detour of all the buildings and offices in that are area enjoying the pretty landscaping and quietness. Once we found the restaurant we were floored. I loved the decorations on both the outside and indoor seating, Jason Dady has done it again!

Restaurant Week | San Antonio

Posted on August 26, 2010 by *Geekette*

In an impassioned attempt to support the local economy, a friend and I have enthusiastically participated in and relished San Antonio’s 1^st Annual Restaurant Week which started Saturday, August 21^st and lasts through Saturday, August 22^nd!

So many choices, so little time! How to choose? Check out where I ate and see mouthwatering pictures showcasing the lunches at 5 San Antonio eateries. Each post contains restaurant menus, contact information, Twitter/Facebook pages, and more reasons to attend, this week and go back subsequently!

WARNING: Pictures of food are incredibly tempting and should not be viewed if adequate meal is not forthcoming!

Sun., Aug. 22 – Las Canarias

Although distracted by the Sunday Champagne brunch, the lunch menu offered throughout the rest of the week looked incredible tempting!

Mon., Aug. 23 – The Palm

Even though it all started in 1926 in NYC, The Palm is still the place to be, with international locations! The San Antonio location kicked off Restaurant week on a high note!

Tue., Aug. 24 – Boudro’s

Boudro’s is a Riverwalk gem and ammunition for anyone who says you can’t find good food on the River. Incredible lunch, left very little to be desired.

Wed., Aug. 25 – The Lodge at Castle Hills

A San Antonio classic, the lunch did not disappoint. The restaurant, a converted mansion nestled within two and a half acres, offered an instant mid-day escape from everything else.

Thu., Aug. 26 – Tre Trattoria

Another Chef Jason Dady treasure, this Tuscan Italian restaurant offered a great ambiance and an equally scrumptious lunch!

Formally the New World Wine & Food Festival, Culinaria is sponsoring this event offering the opportunity to try some of the Alamo City’s BEST culinary masters’ finest dishes in an affordable fashion.

After this week, I’ll never view lunch the same!

Geekette Bits

Great Bits, Tasty Bytes

Category Archives: Local San Antonio

Tip Toe Photography | San Antonio Baby, Children, and Family Photographer

Some Tip Toe Photography products:

2011 Frost | Westin La Cantera

Eversave San Antonio

Tejas Rodeo Company | Bulverde, TX

Francesca’s at Sunset | Westin La Cantera

2011 Lemonade Day San Antonio

Valentine’s Day Menus and Specials | San Antonio, TX

2011 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

*Additional details here.

Special Offers on Food:

Driving Directions here:

Dust & Bubbles

Texas de Brazil San Antonio

Windcrest Christmas Lights | San Antonio, TX

Frost at the Westin La Cantera

Rock ‘n’ Roll San Antonio Marathon and Half Marathon

Now Kids Can Rock, too!

Tre Trattoria | San Antonio TX