Downtown Junkie

Totally cute T-shirt and logo of Cigar Frogs

Me, Owner Joe Dunham, and my friend Shelly

Me and John James

Saturday night, I attended Cigar Frogs pre-opening event.  I invited my friend Shelly, because my husband was at an Indian Princess recruiting event.  I wasn’t sure what the atmosphere was going to be like, and so was a little nervous entering by myself since Shelly wasn’t there yet.

I walked in and was graciously greeted by one of the hosts at the door.  Immediately, I saw beautiful gifts for the cigar aficionado, a freezer display with upscale chocolates, and T-shirts (shown above) with a great Cigar Frogs logo character.  Already, I felt at ease.  My next two steps in, and there sitting at one of the first couches was City Councilman, John James.  We greeted and he immediately introduced me to the two gentleman he was sitting with.  Both were smoking their cigars, chatting, and seemed to be really enjoying themselves.  The waitress took my order as I sat down, and my drinks were to me quickly.  I ordered their house Merlot, and found it very good.

The ambiance was really cool.  Its very lofty-chic, with a Key West decorating feel, and lots of eclectic artwork and furniture peices.  There was also live music playing in the background.  Loud enough you could enjoy it, but not so loud that you couldn’t carry on a conversation.

Next, we walked out back to their patio area.  Okay, this was my favorite part.  Lots of chairs, couches, and tables.  You could feel the breeze, and it helped if you don’t like too smokey of an environment.  Each table outside has a built-in gas fire pit.  Totally cool, and will be great for cooler evenings.

I really enjoyed my evening at Cigar Frogs, and believe it will be a great addition to downtown, especially for the 30+ crowd looking for something more sophisticated to do.

Last night, I had the privilege of attending the Ector County ISD Education Foundation’s Fundraiser in which the Steve Miller Band performed.  The company my husband works for was a sponsor, so we had great seats right smack in the middle on the second row.  The music was great… Steve Miller is truly a great musician.

From where I was, I couldn’t help but watch everyone around me enjoying the music, and basically getting down (Lorraine Perryman comes to mind especially).  I also thought of the popular Summer Lawn Concerts, and the ever-growing Rock the Desert. 

Seems that people will show up for more than just country music.  Looks like we’re all just wanting to hear good live music, and a variety is even better.

So, that brings me to Downtown.  I really hope that when Centennial Plaza is re-opened, we can start having more live music.  The plaza will accommodate everything from small bands in an intimate setting to large bands filling up the plaza (remember George Bush brought 30,000 when space was still tight). 

I know I’ll be there, and judging from the events I’ve been to, so will lots of others!

School’s right around the corner, and this weekend we had our traditional school shopping weekend.

As I was planning for this, I thought of where we could go.  We’ve gone to Lubbock in past years, and even Dallas and Houston.  Although, this year, I was committed to staying in Midland and seeing what the results would be.  First, I looked up coupons on the Internet for some of my daughter’s favorite stores.  Justice for Girls had a coupon good for 40% off your total purchase through 8/10, so that was a no-brainer.  Next, I noticed in the paper that Dillard’s was having an additional 40% off all reduced merchandise, and Kohl’s had 15% off total purchase, in addition to its current sales.  So, in addition to having a good selection of stores to start with, I also had some pretty good discount offers to increase my shopping dollars.

We hit the mall early, and I was really surprised at the choices that were available.  I don’t know how much more tweenies and teens need, but the mall has a great selection of stores now.  Aeropostale has now opened, Limited Too has completely converted to the more affordable Justice for Girls, Coach is open with a beautiful collection of purses and bags (no, this doesn’t apply to the desires of my nine year old), and with the existing Abercrombie, Hollister, American Eagle, and Buckle, there really is little left to have to go out of town for, especially if your destination is Lubbock.  Also, Ulta Beauty will be opening this Friday!

So, I challenge everyone getting ready for school… before you take those dollars out of town, try spending them in Midland.  You’ll find a great selection, and friendly service.