Farrar recently participated in a 5-week Paleo Challenge at CrossFit 806, so we thought you'd like to hear the Funspired scoop on this popular diet: 

What is the Paleo Diet? 

The Paleolithic Diet - abbreviated to "Paleo" and also known as the Caveman Diet - is based on the theory that our food needs have not evolved from those of our pre-agricultural, hunter-gatherer ancestors. Proponents believe that in order to optimize our health, we should eat a diet that mimics the food groups eaten by the so-called "cavemen." This means lots of meat, seafood, eggs, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds, but no grains, no dairy, no legumes no refined sugar and no processed foods. This is not a weight-loss diet, but a lifestyle diet, meaning most of the people who adopt this diet are hoping for an improvement in overall health and well-being - they want to feel better. That being said, many people do lose weight when they go Paleo. One of the reasons that the Paleo lifestyle has become such a trend is that it is the favorite diet for CrossFit athletes. If you haven't heard of CrossFit, it is hugely popular strength and conditioning program with affiliate gyms popping up all over the country (we have 3 right here in Amarillo) - click here to learn more. 

The Food

Food to Enjoy - Meats (especially leaner cuts, grass-fed, and wild game), Seafood (wild-caught is preferred), Eggs, Vegetables (everything from leafy greens to starchy sweet potatoes), Nuts, Seeds, Oils (olive oil, coconut oil and avocado are the favorites), Herbs and Spices.

Foods to Avoid - Dairy (this includes butter, cheese, milk, yogurt, etc.), Grains (including wheat, oats, and even quinoa), Legumes (includes beans, peas, soybeans, cashews & peanuts), Refined Sugar and Processed Foods (mostly the center area of the grocery store).

Up for Debate - There are more and less strict versions of this diet, and the following foods fall into the "grey" area, meaning they are allowed by some and not by others: green beans (some allow these as  "vegetable" even though technically a legume), natural sugars (such as honey, agave nectar and maple syrup) , wine and tequila, whey protein powder (for workout recovery), and corn & potatoes (most consider these no-nos).

Pros & Con

Proponents of the diet believe that it makes them feel stronger, leaner, more energetic and just plain healthier overall. They also believe that it can help prevent or cure cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and other health problems.  And nobody can deny that the Paleo diet is a clean, nutritious, low-sugar, un-processed diet that encourages the consumption of whole foods. However, there are a lot of "healthy" foods that are not permitted in this diet - for example: low-fat dairy (such as plain yogurt), legumes (such as lentils, black beans and chick peas), health whole grains (such as oats, quinoa and barley). Opposition to this diet believes that avoiding these healthy foods might lead to nutritional deficiencies. Many also claim that the Paleo diet can be expensive, but most un-processed whole food diets would be similar. 

Farrar really enjoyed trying the Paleo diet, although not a huge change from her pre-Paleo way of eating. She learned how to order differently restaurants, and will continue to do so post-Paleo. And while she will add some dairy, legumes and grains back into her diet, she will certainly limit them more than she did previously. Overall, it was a really positive experience!

Resources & Recipes

For more information about the Paleo diet: The Paleo Diet by Dr. Loren Cordain, Ph.D. - Robb Wolf's Paleo - Beginner's Guide by Nerd Fitness - Mark's Daily Apple

For recipe ideas: Amazing Paleo (we loved the hummus pictured above) - Elana's Pantry - Everyday Paleo

A special thank you to Hannah and Whitney at CrossFit 806 guidance and encouragement during the Paleo Challenge!

Your fun friends, 

Susan and Farrar

Fun things happening around the Panhandle this week:

HOMER'S BACKYARD BALL

The area's largest outdoor Texas music festival is this Saturday from 11am - 11pm! Homer's 16th annual Backyard Ball has a terrific music lineup this year with headliner Cooder Graw. Free BBQ from 3-6pm. BYOB (no glass containers) The weather looks sunny for Saturday, so head out to I40 and Whitaker Road. Tickets $25 in advance. This year's theme? My Big Fat Redneck Homers! Click here for more info!

MUD RUN

There is still time to sign up for Maxwell's Mud Run this Saturday! Supporting Snack Pak 4 Kids and presented by Amarillo Athlete at 9AM at Maxwell's Pumpkin Farm. It is a 3 mile run with hard-core obstacles (think wall climbs, tunnels and LOTS of mud) and after the race a great post-race party involving music, beverages and fun! A Kid's "mud mile" will be at 11AM - don't miss this great event!

STICKY WICKETS

Friend's of Amarillo Botanical Gardens present their membership luncheon and then the always fun Sticky Wickets Croquet tournament! Luncheon at 11:30 and cocktails at 1pm! $40 admission includes food and drink and supports the gardens. Croquet play begins at 2pm - for more information call 806-352-6513.

DOVE CREEK RANCH

Dove Creek Equine Rescue is the largest rescue in the Panhandle - and they are hosting an open house this Saturday from 10-3pm. It's for kids, too! Education is the focus, as well as a "meet and greet" with the rescue horses up for adoption. They will have a roping dummy, two miniature horses (in photo) and trail ride! Located outside Canyon, TX - click here for more information on this important cause and event.

A FEW MORE EVENTS... 

* The Amarillo Museum of Art presents "Print Fair" all weekend long. Browse and purchase a wonderful range of prints from art masters from Goya to emerging artists. Admission Free.

* Race 5 of the West Texas 12 Pack Mountain Bike races presented by Sun Adventure Sports will be Sunday in the Palo Duro Canyon - start location is Fortress Cliff Day use area. Races start at 10am.

* MuttFest Barkin' Birthday Bash in Memorial Park Sunday from 12-5pm in Memorial Park (south of Amarillo College on Washington). This 20th annual event benefits the Amarillo SPCA - bring your pets for food, music and fun doggie activities. (and adoptions too!)

* Discover After Dark "Musicology" - the science of music Friday from 7-10pm at the Discovery Center. Great event mixing music, cocktails and innovative science and art! 

PLAN AHEAD FUN

* Dinner au Blanc (French all white picnic) is scheduled for Friday, June 14th at 6:30pm! Quel Plaisir! BYO table, chairs and food & drink and enjoy this fun event! All white attire! Location at 10th and Tyler (Firestone Building)

* Brush with Art is planning Fun in the Summer Art Camps! Workshops for all ages planned, sign up now! 

Your fun friends,

Susan and Farrar

The Pectoral Sandpiper

Many of you may be surprised to learn that the Texas Panhandle offers outstanding bird-watching, or otherwise known as birding. Since we are located on the High Plains - it puts us in the heart of the Central Flyway. Over 300 species of birds ranging from neotropical migrants migrating from Central and South America to the Boreal Forests of Canada to shorebirds like the Pectoral Sandpiper that migrates through the Texas Panhandle from South America to the breeding grounds along the Arctic Ocean.There is something primordial about migrating birds - just like the great herds of American Bison before the 20th Century, today's Barren Ground Caribou of Alaska, or the Wildebeest migration through the Rift Valley of Africa. It is a spectacular thing to witness each spring and fall - and most don't notice.

Lake Marvin - Canadian, TX

WHERE TO START...

Find water in the Texas Panhandle and you will find birds. With our lack of large, deciduous trees - it helps to concentrate the birds around water. Other good spots are wooded areas along the Canadian, Salt Fork and Prairie Dog Forks of the Red River and their tributaries. Playa lakes, when full, offer an incredible variety of birds. Hundreds of thousands of waterfowl winter on area Playas and Reservoirs. During the spring and fall many varieties of shorebirds migrare through and some will nest on the Playas.

The Lesser Prairie Chicken

Special Species to look for...

In the Texas Panhandle - The Lesser Prairie Chicken, while on the Threatened Species List, is found near Canadian, TX. Other species that are rare or unique to the Texas Panhandle are the Interior Least Tern that nests on the sandy banks of the Canadian and Red River Tributaries and the beautiful Painted Bunting. Bald Eagles are common around large bodies of water with wintering waterfowl.

Time of year...

For resident species - anytime is good. Certain species winter in the Panhandle - while others nest in the summer. The greatest variety will be during the spring and fall migrations. The VERY BEST time of year is mid-May. (You are welcome!) Find a day after a major cold front has passed through and you'll be surprised how many different species seem to have just appeared. This is because the birds migrating north run into strong headwinds and literally "fall out" of the sky seeking refuge and rest on their journey north. Find a day that the wind is not blowing too hard and get outdoors. If the weather is bad read, the book titled The Big Year: A Tale of Man, Nature and Fowl Obsession by Mark Obmascik or rent the movie starring Steve Martin, Owen Wilson and Jack Black.

Gear...

Most important is good quality optics. Leica, Swarovsky, Pentax and Leopold all can be found locally at Riverfields Outfitters in Wolflin Square. Like jewelry - high quality means big $, but it is worth every penny!

The beautiful Painted Bunting

Public Places to Spot Birds...

* Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge * Palo Duro Canyon State Park * Lake Meredith * Lake Greenbelt * Lake McClellan * Lake Marvin * Gene Howe WMA * Lake Fryer (near Perryton) * Rita Blanca (near Dalhart) * Cactus Playa (east of Cactus) * Area Playa Lakes * Thompson Park

Websites for Birding...

Texas Panhandle Bird Club * American Birding Association * Texas Parks & Wildlife Birding * Texas Panhandle Chapter of the Audubon Society * Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Field Guides, Reference Books and other Good Reads...

* The Sibley Guide for Birds by David Allen Sibley (also an outstanding iPhone App)

* Birder's Guide to Texas by Edward A. Kutac (wonderful man that lived his last 15 years in Amarillo)

* Birds of the Texas Panhandle: Their Status, Distribution and History by Kenneth D. Seyffert - He spent an untold number of hours in the field studying birds in the Panhandle. His book is a true labor of love.

* Kaufman Field Guide to Birds of North America by Kenn Kaufman

* Peterson Field Guide to Birds of North America by Roger Tory Peterson

* Birdwatcher - The Life of Roger Tory Peterson by Elizabeth J. Rosenthal

* John James Audubon - The Making of an American by Richard Rhodes

* Kingbird Highway - The Biggest Year in the Life of an Extreme Birder by Kenn Kaufman

We would like to thank our expert birding friends for helping with this article! Great information! Now, get out there and do some birding!

Your fun friends,

Susan and Farrar

MOTHER'S DAY EDITION

Looking for a special way to show the Moms in your life how much you appreciate them? Here are some ideas of how you can treat them to some fun this week -

Take her to see live music:

* Gary P. Nunn will be playing at the Golden Light this Friday, May 10th.

* Canadian, TX will be hosting their 4th Annual Canadian River Music Festival this Saturday, May 11th. An amazing line up including Ray Wylie Hubbard and Pat Green. Great tunes in a great Texas town!

Let her smell the flowers:

* Wildcat Bluff will be celebrating Mother's Day with a Wildflower Tour on Saturday, May 11th 9am-noon. It's Free and be sure to bring your camera!

For the adventurers:

* Mother's Day on the Mother Road is a motorcycle fun run on Route 66 this Sunday, May 12th. What's better than moms in leather?

* Running moms might enjoy participating in the Hope & Healing Place 1/2 Marathon this Sunday, May 12th at 7am. If she hasn't trained for the full 13.1 miles, there is an option for a 2 or 4 person relay. But hurry - registration closes today!

If she loves to learn:

* Mother's get in free at the Don Harrington Discovery Center this Sunday, May 12th. Enjoy special programming and presentations.

* Sign her up for the Laura W. Bush Institute for Women's Health Community Matters lunch and learn event next Wednesday, May 15th noon-1pm at the Amarillo National Bank Skyline Conference Room. Attorney Denise Fletcher will speak about "What does the Affordable Care Act mean for you?" Reservations required - contact Jaclyn at 806-356-4617 or jaclyn.inkhamheng@ttuhsc.edu.

Give her some culture:

* Process Art House has a new show opening this weekend - Passages and New Dimensions features glass sculptures from Chad Holliday. Take her by the opening party tomorrow night 7-10pm at 7th and Van Buren.

* Chamber Music Amarillo is taking you back to the roaring 20s for a Speakeasy party this Saturday, May 11th 6pm in the Khiva Shrine basement. Call 236-3545 for reservations. And don't forget to tell Mom that the password at the door is "Bach."

Happy Mother's Day to all of the wonderful mothers in our lives!

Your fun MOM friends,

Susan and Farrar

Have you ever found yourself in a rut? You just feel "blah" and nothing really inspires you? Be honest - we have ALL been there! We have had so much fun dreaming up the SWi awards to annually celebrate our readers and our Funspired anniversary, but it has been a crazy, busy time of year as well! If we are being truthful, we all suffer form burn-out. Because we are all over stressed - over committed and over stimulated - it is easy to find ourselves exhausted and just zapped. Since none of us want to dwell in that place too long - we have complied a list of ways to become "re-inspired!"

1. TURN IT OFF! We are all addicted to our smart phones, smart tablets, lap tops, social media sites and so on. Detaching means turn it off at least for a few hours - or go big and try a few days! You won't regret it - because it is like pushing the "reset" button and makes a drastic difference in the quality of your home and work life! 

2. TRAVEL. Both of us love to travel, it is a huge priority in our lives. Traveling gives you a new perspective. It changes your "view" and with that - refreshes and invigorates you. Nothing is more exciting than getting to know a new city or destination - becoming a temporary "local" and getting a sense of the place's vibe. By immersing yourself in a new culture that challenges you to look at your life and your priorities in a new light. Or, when all else fails - a margarita and a good laugh does the trick too.

3. STUDY. Apparently Housewives of Beverly Hills is not fuel for the mind (and neither is Keeping up with the Kardashians, people!) Sitting in front of a TV only makes your "funk" worse! Why not pick up a new book, attend one of our great local wine or beer tastings, go to a museum to see a new exhibit or take a class. Amarillo College has great continuing education classes - learn something new! Don't worry, it doesn't matter how long you've been out of school - your brain will remember how to learn.

4. GET FANCY. If you are reading this in sweatpants, we are talking directly to you! Yes, your "laying around the house clothes" are comfy, but sometimes you can't underestimate how much the way you LOOK affects the way that you FEEL. Get showered! Ladies - do your hair and makeup and put on that outfit you bought but haven't worn - and go somewhere! You'll see your confidence and swagger return. Men - same goes for you! Style is intentional, have some fun!

5. CHANGE. Even though we all must have a routine, sometimes why we are feeling stuck in the mud is due to TOO much of a routine. Move around the order of your day if you can - wake up for an early workout instead of waiting until 5PM, try a new spin class or hire a trainer to help spruce up your workouts. Challenge yourself - sign up for that 5K you've always wanted to run. Try a new recipe for family dinner instead of making the same spread. If you spend the day in the office - give yourself the morning to be creative, to dream big ideas or innovate - then spend the afternoon returning those emails that seem to stack in your Inbox (they are not going anywhere!) and at least you had the morning when you were fresh to be creative!

6. PLAY. Laugh - have fun - get out there! It is wildly important to engage with other people, and not just the ones we know - reach out to someone new. Sometimes being exposed to other people's thoughts, experiences and opinions is refreshing! Invite a new couple to dinner. Set a goal to have coffee or lunch with a new person every month. Instead of going to dinner on Friday night - go for a bike ride with the kiddos (or without!) or instead of going to a movie - pick up a new sport. Tennis anyone?

We hope that we have given you ideas on how to become re-inspired in your life! Now get out there and be inspired!

Your fun friends,

Susan and Farrar

Fun things happening around the Panhandle this week...

9 TO 5

You won't want to miss the Grammy Award-winning songwriter Dolly Parton's Musical 9 to 5 that will be hitting ALT's stage as its final production of the season. May 2-4, 9-11, 16-18 at 8PM with 2:30 shows on the 12th and 19th. The wonderful and talented performers include one of Funspired's fav's Heather Manderson and the choreographer is our very own recent SWi Impact recipient, Jason Crespin. Don't miss this big, bright musical- make your reservations today. Click here for more info or call 806-355-9991.

RUN IT

Lots of options to run off your calories and have fun this week:

* PUB RUN - Wednesday, May 8th - @ Get Fit. 2 mile Fun Run then go to 575 Pizzeria for some "post run refreshment." For more information, call 806-350-4262.

* 2nd Annual Red Hot Chili Pepper Run in Canadian! 10 K & 5 K run, 1 Mile Fun Run this Saturday, May 4th at 9AM. Adults $25, students $10.

* Last, but certainly NOT least... the Purple Ribbon 5K in honor of Tanner Epps. All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society - and will kick off Relay for Life of Amarillo. Mark your calendar for Friday, May 3rd at 7:30PM at Medi Park between Discovery Center & Botanical Gardens. After the race enjoy LIVE music and food in Medi Park. 5K is $25 and 2K is $15 - shirts included for first 250 registrants. Children are welcome - ad prizes for people wearing the most purple! If you can't run...then donate!

VINTAGE AMARILLO

"Twilight on the Terrazza" features a wine auction with fine Italian wines benefiting the Amarillo Symphony! Saturday, May 4th at 6:30PM at the Khiva Shrine Center. Dinner by O.H.M.S. and live auction - for more information, call the Symphony office at 376-8782. 

GARDENFEST

One of Amarillo Botanical Garden's most popular events! TONS of plants for sale, information on yard and gardent supplies - and art show and sale, entertainment as well! Just in time for your spring gardening projects! Light snacks and beverages will be served. Admission is free! Call 352-6513 for more information!

RUN JUMP & PLAY

One last thing... Run, Jump and Play Day - this 3rd annual event is scheduled for May 4th from 11-2PM at Unique Individuals. (7701 Coulter) This is a fun activity-filled event focused on all children in the Texas Panhandle. The purpose is to introduce parents and kids to the programs, services and products available in the Amarillo area that will keep your kids happy, healthy and active!

Your fun friends,

Susan and Farrar

Did you realize that every year 3.3 million reports of child abuse are made in the United States? The United States has the worst record of any industrialized nation. National statistics report a child is abused or neglected every 35 seconds and as a result - a child dies every 6 hours. Child abuse occurs at every socioeconomic level, across ethnic and cultural lines, within all religions and at all levels of education. 

Unfortunately, Amarillo is not immune. 

The Texas Panhandle has one of the highest rates of confirmed cases of child abuse in the state of Texas. When abuse or neglect is reported, children find themselves in our legal system fighting for a safe place to grow up. To assist children in our area to find safe, permanent homes - Amarillo Area CASA steps in. CASA is a non-profit service organization that recruits and trains a diverse group of court appointed volunteers to advocate for the best interests of these children during this process. It is CASA's goal for every child of abuse or neglect to have a CASA advocate - appointed by the court - to ensure them a safe, nurturing and permanent environment.

A CASA's main function is to gather information that will aid the court in determining permanent placement for children removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect. This work is carried out by volunteers - with the support and guidance of professional staff. The volunteers are teachers - business people - retirees - stay-at-home-moms - college students; extraordinary people who want to make the voices of abused children heard. Volunteers get to know the child and conduct their own investigation. This includes interviewing everyone involved in the case, including family members, teachers, foster parents, doctors, lawyers, social workers and others. The information they gather and their recommendations help the court make informed decisions. CASA volunteers commit to a child until the case is closed and the child is placed in a safe, permanent home.

What is abuse?

Physical: failure to provide food, shelter or appropriate supervision

Medical: failure to provide necessary medical or mental health treatment

Educational: failure to educate a child or attend to special needs

Emotional: failure to provide emotional needs, permits child to use alcohol or other drugs

What can you do?

* AACASA is hosting an advocate training course - this helps volunteers to be well-equipped to serve abused children in our area. The extensive training gives the CASA the necessary skills needed to successfully advocate in court. New Advocate Training Dates are: May 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd and 24th - all from 5:30 - 9:00pm. As an advocate - you can change one life at a time. There is nothing more rewarding than helping a child who has been neglected, abused or abandoned. 

* Report abuse or neglect to law enforcement - there is a 48 hour reporting requirement for professionals. Reports are confidential - the national abuse hotline is 1-800-252-5400.

* Donate! Attend Amarillo Area CASA's Pearls of Hope Masquerade Ball. The event is scheduled for May 11th in the hangar of Mr. and Mrs. Scharbauer at 3410 Airway Boulevard. 6:30pm cocktails - 7pm dinner by Joe's catering. There will be a program honoring nominees and dancing to one of our favorite bands. Attire is costumes or glamorous cocktail attire. A mask is required, and a limited quantity of masks available for sale at the door. For more information - call 806-373-2272.

We salute CASA and their exceptional volunteers for the important work they are doing in our community. We hope that you will join us in supporting this worthy organization.

Your fun friends,

Susan and Farrar

Today is Funspired's 2nd anniversary! 

In celebration, we are thrilled to introduce the SWi awards (pronounced "swee") which celebrate people in our community who inspire us with their Style, Wellness, and Impact on the world around them. Every year, we will present three awards in each category. While the recipients that are honored have different characteristics and strengths, one thing they all have in common is that we respect the balance they achieve in their lives. They are happy people who surround themselves with friends and family. We asked them each the same questions, so make sure to click the links to compare all of their interesting answers. Here is the Funspired scoop:

Inspiring Style

Style SWi's present themselves with confidence and a positive attitude - always look great and make it look effortless - and stay true to a look that is all their own. They inspire authentic style. Our 2013 Style SWi's are...

Mary Nell and her husband Rex

* Mary Nell Lemert - She walks in a room and immediately you sense her presence. Confident, yet graceful. We are inspired by her effortless beauty - she looks just as pretty in her workout clothes as she does in her black tie attire. She is warm and gracious, and in so many ways embodies the "Proverbs 31" woman in our book. Click here to read more about our friend Mary Nell.

* Tom Knapp - This is a guy who is not afraid to take risks in the way he dresses. His style is colorful and energetic just like his personality. And, he always wears it with a big smile and twinkle in his eye. He's a music-loving lawyer who takes great joy in his family and friends. Click here to read more about our friend Tom.

* Jenny Bivins - She's a young beauty who always looks fresh and chic. She's a trendsetter beyond her years, but it's her positive energy, enthusiasm and confidence that sets her apart. She's a senior at Tascosa High School and heading to UT next year. Click here to read more about our friend Jenny.

 Inspiring Wellness

Wellness SWi's enjoy an active lifestyle - look forward to the next challenge - and strive for health in both mind and body. They inspire us to live well. Our 2013 Wellness SWi's are...

* Sam Price - She inspires us by the way she balances her career, her dedication to fitness and health and her time enjoying friends and family. She is beautiful inside and out and she has a rockin' body from all those early morning workouts. Click here to read more about our friend Sam.

Kyle and his family - wife Ronna, daughter Hallie and son Hayden

* Kyle McAdams - This is a guy who has recently found a passion for his health and his bike. We love his contagious enthusiasm for life. He's a family man with a strong faith, and we can't wait to cheer him on at this year's grueling Leadville 100 bike race. Click here to read more about our friend Kyle.

Ellen and her husband Greg

* Ellen Graham - What impresses most about this woman is that no matter where she is, she always finds a way to get in a workout... and she travels a lot, so this is no easy feat! She's a diva on the tennis court and a machine in spin class, but what we think really makes her "well" is that she surrounds herself with great friends, her precious "Goofy" and always smiling with a tall margarita in hand. Click here to read more about our friend Ellen.

Inspiring Impact

Impact SWi's use their talents to make a difference one person at a time - balance their many roles in life with ease and grace - and give with all their heart. They inspire us to make an impact. Our 2013 Impact SWi's are...

Steve and his two grandsons Four and Joe

* Steve Dalrymple - He is fun family guy who's played many leadership roles in the Amarillo area. We're especially grateful for his recent contribution to the BSA sale and his commitment to the best interests of our community. His leadership style is quiet, effective and always with a sense of humor (click on his link to get a taste of his humor). Click here to read more about our friend Steve.

* Michele Agostini - This gal moved to Amarillo and hit the ground running. She is involved in a little bit of everything, but anything she takes on, she jumps in with all hands and gets the job done well. We're so impressed with her ability to balance her many commitments while still making her family and friends her first priority. Click here to read more about our friend Michele.

* Jason Crespin - This guy inspires us with his incredible energy and enthusiasm for life. He a talented actor, a great friend, and most importantly, a teacher that encourages the youngsters of Amarillo to believe in themselves. He has a special talent for making everyone around him feel like a star.  Click here to read more about our friend Jason.

The Awards

A few of the SWi awards

We gathered our award recipients together for a presentation yesterday evening. We wanted to do something different and special, so we found these small canvases and asked our artist friend Shannon Pierce to interpret the SWi logo into original paintings for each of our honorees. As you can see, she is incredibly talented, and we hope each of our recipients will treasure this award not only for what it represents, but also because it is such a cool piece of art. 

Shannon with her precious sons Ben and Will

Artist Bio... Shannon's father was a marine, so she lived all over the world. When her family moved to Lubbock, she remembers looking at the landscape as they landed and being confused -  "Where are the trees?"  With time, she fell in love with the landscape of the Panhandle, the canyons, the colors, and the sky! Shannon points out that the ground - not only the trees - change color with the seasons. 

Shannon married her high school sweetheart and moved to Amarillo. This is home - she loves it here. Shannon and Chad have two sons, Ben and Will, who fill their home with energy and love. Shannon's mother is a trained artist, so she has been around art all of her life. After studying English and History at Texas Tech, she began experimenting with art. Her friends started buying her art and encouraged her to have her first art show in 2003 - and she has had three shows since that time. Shannon's art is contemporary and multi-media. She is in medical sales during the day, artist by night...with the dream of doing art full time someday. We are so grateful to Shannon for sharing her amazing talent - each piece is a treasure that we know all the recipients will enjoy for years to come!

Thank you all for your support of Funspired - and cheers to our SWi recipients - to put it simply... you inspire us.

Your fun friends,

Susan and Farrar

We're bringing you your Weekly Fun a day early this week because tomorrow is our 2nd Anniversary, and we'll be presenting our first annual SWi award recipients - stay tuned! For now, here are the fun things happening in the Panhandle this week:

BADGES VS. BADGES

This Saturday, April 27th is the Battle of the Badges where local firefighters will face off against local law enforcement in boxing matches to raise money for the Texas Panhandle 100 Club (an incredible organization that assists first responders in times of crisis). $15-35 per person - purchase tickets here. Doors open at 6pm and matches begin at 7pm in the Civic Center Coliseum. Who's team are you on?

BEER WITH OSKAR

We are huge fans of Crush's beer and wine dinners - the food is always amazing and the drinks are always tasty and plentiful.  Whether you're a regular like us or new on the scene, we highly recommend you attend the Oskar Blues Beer Dinner next Wednesday, May 1st at 6:30pm. You'll enjoy 6 beers paired with food and a glass to take home. Good times. $50 per person. Call 418-2011 to make your reservations now.

AMARILLO APP

Amarillo has it's own smart phone app thanks to a group of local high school students! How cool is that? Great for visitors and locals alike, this app provides recommendations for food, hotels, activities and more. Only $1.99 at the itunes or Android app store. Click here for more information.

HEATHY KIDS

Join the local YMCA for Healthy Kids Day this Saturday, April 27th. Fun activities, craft vendors, entertainment and a mud run. 10am-2pm at the South YMCA on Hillside Rd. $3 for ages 12 & up. Call 367-8047 for more information.

SYMPHONIC FUN

Enjoy another great show from the Amarillo Symphony this weekend as they present their Dynamic Dance of Strings. Sure to make you happy. Friday & Saturday, April 26th & 27th 8pm at the Globe-News Center for the Performing Arts. Buy tickets here. Also this weekend at the Globe-News Center: the Amarillo Youth Orchestra Spring Concert on Sunday, April 28th at 3pm. Click here for more info.

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS

Two upcoming events worth reserving a spot:

St. Andrews  Episcopal School will host their spring benefit event - A Mediterranean Evening - next Saturday, May 4th at the home of Madeline and Kirk Coury. Enjoy fabulous food, drinks and an extensive auction. Call 576-9173 for reservations. 

The Amarillo Symphony Guild presents Vintage Amarillo, Amarillo's premier wine auction. This year's event - Twilight on the Terrazza - will feature fine Italian wines. Preview party Friday, May 3rd and Dinner and Auction on Saturday, May 4th. Call 376-8782 for reservations.

ALSO...

Susan and Farrar

This past weekend the Funspired gang retreated to West Texas for an adventure in the rustic and beautiful Big Bend area. We loved experiencing the wide variety of people, scenery and distinct personalities of each location we visited along the way. Our husbands joined us (enjoying it all on Funspired's tab makes it even more fun for them:) - and between the four of us, here is a breakdown of our adventure in Big Bend...

ALPINE

We couldn't pass up stopping at Fort Davis in route to check out UT's McDonald Observatory - an astronomical observatory located near the Davis Mountains. Next stop: Alpine. It is the gateway to the scenic Big Bend area,and has an old-school western vibe and is the home of Sul-Ross University. We checked into our hotel The Maverick Inn - a renovated adobe motor lodge with friendly staff. Since it was cocktail hour, we headed over to their sister hotel (which was sold out) The Holland Hotel to their lobby bar - Century Bar & Grill. Farrar and Rob quickly discovered brews from a new local micro-brewery that was on tap and were impressed. Big Bend Brewing Company offers a variety of delicious beers from a Hefeweizen to a Porter and more. Dinner reservations at Reata - a restaurant named after the legendary ranch in the James Dean classic movie "Giant" that was filmed in nearby Marfa. It is a southwestern style steakhouse that we enjoyed tremendously! Next, we jumped in the car and drove the 5 miles out Route 67 to see if we could see the famous "Marfa Lights." Known as eerie "dancing orbs" - they are a mystery that draws visitors nightly. 

Looking for the lights... Farrar supposedly saw them, Suz is still looking...

MARFA

Marfa is anything but expected. Embraced by artists, this population 2,000 west Texas town has a dual-identity. Part traditional ranching town, part eclectic and fascinating expression of artsy-creativity. Marfa was recently featured in 60 Minutes and labeled the "quirkiest little town in America." When a rancher was asked what he thought of the influx of East and West coast artists and art enthusiasts to their town, he responded "it is a lot like bird watching." Yet, both diverse cultures seem to blend perfectly in this town. 

Marfa main drag with courthouse in background

We first arrived and toured Hotel Paisano - designed by Henry Troust who is viewed by many as one of Texas's finests first architects. Troust also designed the historic Gage Hotel in Marathon. Immediately you are impressed with the crisp white adobe buildings lining downtown and the beautiful courthouse at the end of the main street. 

Checking out the great art in Marfa 

The Ayn Foundation hosted two exceptional exhibits in their cool, edgy space with steel & glass sliding doors - Andy Warhol's "The Last Supper" and German artist Maria Zerres' "September Eleven" - comprising of paintings she completed in the wake of the tragic events of 9/11. Yes, impressive art in a town where the closest airport is 190 miles west (El Paso).

Sloan, Farrar and Rob in line at the Food Shark in Marfa

Our local architect friend, Mason Rogers, gave us a tip to go to Exhibitions 2D to see his Clarendon friend who is exhibiting art at this gallery: John Robert Craft. Loved it. Lunch next - Food Shark & Fat Lyle's are very popular food trucks, and a great way to interact with the locals. Next stop the Chinati Foundation - founded by artist Donald Judd, it is largely responsible for the influx of art enthusiasts visiting the area to see his famous minimalist works. El Cosmico is a close by lodging option, with a bohemian funk vibe - guests can stay in teepees or airstreams. We continued on, and after a quick stop at the Velvet Antler for some cool locally made jewelry, we headed to the coolest spot in town: Planet Marfa. An outdoor beer garden - live music - and only open on the weekends - it feels like Key West in the daytime and night time turns into a little bit of Cabo. We mingled with friendly locals, hung out in a teepee that is dug 6 feet into the ground and enjoyed the stories of the other tourists checking out this town that can best be described as "hippie chic."

"Prada Marfa" - a permanent installed sculpture outside of Marfa by German artists Elmgreen and Dragset

LAJITAS

Next stop... the border! The drive from Marfa to Lajitas was breathtaking with the rugged beauty of the mountains along the Rio Grande. Lajitas has a history that reads like a Michener novel - settlers - indians - even Pancho Villa tales. For many years the mayor of Lajitas was Clay Henry III, a beer drinking goat. In 2000, an Austin entrepreneur bought the 25,000 acre parcel of Lajitas, spent $100 million to turn it into the isolated and unique retreat where we stayed. Known for it's golf course, Lajitas is a lovely oasis in the middle of the dessert.

One of the past mayors of Lajitas 

It is a paradise for mountain bikers, so Sloan (Susan's husband) jumped on his bike and the rest of us went running/hiking in the hills on the 20 miles of trails near the resort. You could spend days enjoying the beauty of Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park.

Sloan heading out on the trails, Big Bend National Park in distance

TERLINGUA

17 miles down the road from Lajitas resort is the ghost town of Terlingua. It was the US's quicksilver mining capital during  World War II - supplying precious metal for bomb ignitions. After the war, Terlingua became a ghost town. Now it is a tourist stop and artist haven - and just a funky little spot. Since all of your meals in Lajitas are at the resort, we decided to explore nearby Terlingua for our last night in the area. What. A. Surprise. We first hit La Kiva Bar for a drink. Quirky doesn't even begin to explain this watering hole that is partially dug into the earth. European tourists blended with hippies, artists, and locals - all made for a great vibe. The Anthony Ray Wright band started playing, and our favorite part is that locals would grab their instruments and join the band for various tunes. Dinner was down the road at the Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon with chicken-fried antelope and amazing quail and steak. 

Enjoying the tunes in Terlingua 

To visit Big Bend, one must have an adventurous spirit and a love for the arid desert landscape and mountains. We did not get a lot of work done on our "Funspired Retreat" but we certainly had an amazing and memorable trip together. 

Sunrise outside the resort in Lajitas

Your fun friends,

Susan and Farrar