Everything's better with Kendra Scott and El Real

We had a few bonus visits recently with Greg's daughters. We just don't get to visit enough, so even a few hours together count. So do shopping at Kendra Scott, and eating at Brasserie 19 and El Real.

Capri and her Dad

First up was Capri, who was on short break from UNT in Denton. We did brunch at Brasserie 19, which has one of the best menus in Houston, and Executive Chef Amanda McGraw is tops. Amanda also happens to be an authority on cheese, which in my book earns many extra points. Plied with plenty of food and an accompanying drink, we made easy targets in Rice Village where we did a bit of shopping, with Greg's credit card having an out-of-wallet experience at the new Kendra Scott location for a Christmas gift for Capri, and a couple of gifts for me.  

This visit was cool because there's something different about Capri. She's more grown-up, enthusiastic, earnest, goal-driven. What happened to the all-night, all-out gamer? Well, for one, she has a boyfriend. And he's a musician, not a gamer. 'Nuff said.  

Constantly goofing off and photojacking

Next up, Tahni. Tahni's burgeoning photography business has her zig-zagging the country and the globe and every now and then, she lands in Texas. We had an awesome day with her, including Daddy-Daughter time in the morning (late lunch at Harry's), and time for me in the afternoon. Happily, it was Neighborhood Monday at El Real Tex-Mex, located dangerously close to our home and featuring downright perilous specials. 

Visits with Tahni are always fun because she always has great stories, and we always share something artsy. Oh, and I get to live vicariously a little because she's going to the annual tree-lighting tonight at Rockefeller Center. Lucky!

Food tends to play a leading role in our visits. But how can it not? Houstonians love their restaurants, after all. According to a new study, Harris County hotels and restaurants had a total economic impact of $13.2 billion in 2011. That includes $7.9 billion in sales and $5.3 billion in indirect and induced economic activity. Really? That's serious cash. 

Capri and Tahni, it was great to see y'all. Can't wait for the next visit!

El Real - yummy

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