A Library Without Books

As the clouds roll through the Dallas sky this warm Sunday afternoon, I can't help but think back to Monday's trip to the George W. Bush Presidential Library.

The Library, which is really just a museum, chronicles the major issues Bush faced while president. Buttons are displayed in front of videos detailing the 2000 election (my favorite button said: "Beautify the White House. Plant another Bush."). Steel pillars from the World Trade Centers stand tall among the names of those who lost their lives on September 11th. The educational "Decision Points" game puts you in the president's shoes by having you listen to global leaders' conflicting advice regarding Saddam Hussein, Hurricane Katrina, and The Surge. And then you have to make your decision about what to do (while being timed of course).

A quote on the ground running in a circle around the pillars reads, "These acts shatter steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve."

While the Library covers its fair share of serious topics, there's also a lightheartedness to the museum. The entrance hall displays a 360 degree video depicting American landscapes, people, and presidents. Laura's favorite children's books are displayed in a reading nook. Everyone gets the chance to sit at Bush's desk in the Oval Office replica. And you can't forget my favorite video by Barbara and Jenna showing all the laughter their dad brought to his days in the White House. 

My sister and I were lucky enough to have visited the Library on the last day of the special exhibit, "The Art of Leadership," displaying Bush's now-famous paintings of world leaders he interacted with while president. It was very interesting to see his personal works of art placed next to pictures of the two leaders plus a description detailing their communication.

Even though I've only been fortunate to visit twice, I would recommend a trip to the George W. Bush Presidential Library to anyone. The educational and fun aspects are incorporated into one beautiful museum. You can find more detailed information about planning your visit here!

Gina

May's Monthly Musings

Yes, I do realize that there are only two more days left of this month, but that's not going to stop me from posting about the things I've been mulling over in my mind this May!

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Is there really anyone out there who hasn't heard of Divergent? It has not even hit the one month mark of summer, yet I've managed to read the whole series, read Divergent again, and see the movie in theaters (I swear I saw one of the last showings; it's May for crying out loud). I got the first book for Christmas, but just didn't have time to read it over break. While the writing is far from eloquent, the storyline will keep you reading on until you realize it's 2am and you should probably get to bed. It's a great read I'd recommend to anyone!

Here's my favorite line, which comes from the Dauntless manifesto: "We believe in shouting for those who can only whisper, in defending those who cannot defend themselves."

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Since getting back from Rome, I can't stop listening to the song "Rather Be" by Clean Bandit, my program's theme song. It took a few days before I could bear to hear the tune without breaking down in sobs, but now I enjoy listening to it since it reminds me of the past four months. I swear, it's going to take the US by storm before you know it.

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The recent weather in Dallas has truly been unbelievable. So, I've taken advantage of the unnaturally cool temperatures and have been exercising outside. After a run through my neighborhood, I love doing this Victoria's Secret Angel Workout in my backyard. It's great to do once you have your blood pumping! Plus, I know everyone's trying to get that perfect bikini bod.

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Continuing on with the weather trend, I love restaurants with outdoor seating, but the Texas heat usually makes dining outside unbearable. However, this low pressure system has allowed me to enjoy my favorite taco joint Torchy's Tacos while sitting outside twice in the last week. I usually frequent the Preston and Forest location, but I've discovered that the SMU and Garland Road locations have a very Austin-like vibe (in addition to a full bar) with a plethora of outdoor seating.

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In Texas, May means summer, which also means bringing my cute summer sandals out of hibernation. I'm completely obsessed with my new Lucky Brand Kyndra wedges (shop for them here)! Not only do they draw together multiple materials, but they're not too tall and incredibly comfortable. Plus, you can wear them with a summer dress or shorts, dressing an outfit up or down.

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May has been fantastic, but I can't wait to see what June will bring and what I'll find myself obsessing over next.

Gina

P.S. Nordstrom is currently having its Half-Yearly Sale and Lilly Pulitzer just released their 2014-15 agendas for pre-order. Shop away!