Arlington, A Baseball Town

This weekend the Texas Rangers had their first home games for the 2013 season. Fans could not have asked for  more beautiful weather on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday which made enjoyable games for every age group. What's more, the Rangers won the series against their rival, the Los Angeles Angels. This home opener was especially exciting with ex-Texas Ranger, Josh Hamilton, batting for the Angels. Many fans have been upset by Josh's comments regarding Texas' fans. He stated that this was not a true "baseball town" which I believe the fans proved him wrong all weekend since every time Josh came to bat, the disapproving boo's could be heard throughout the whole ballpark. Even Hamilton commented that he had never heard the stadium so explosive.

The ballpark was packed with fans all weekend and the excitement was contagious. There are few things in life that are more fun than being in the Rangers Ballpark when a home run is hit! Fireworks explode in the air, fans scream, and friendly high-five's are shared with strangers who become friends during the game. Belltre, Kinsler, Moreland, Cruz, Murphy, and Berkman hit the first home runs of the Ranger home games.

 If you are ever in the Dallas/ Fort Worth area, a Texas Rangers game is a must! The Rangers Ballpark is located in a convenient location, Arlington, Texas. Smack in the middle of Dallas and Fort Worth. Also, Arlington is home to Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor. Tailgaters can enjoy multiple parking lots to cook out, play games, and enjoy the beautiful Texas weather. There are multiple restaurants in walking distance that will allow you to park in their parking lots for $5-10 dollars per car. Sherlock's Pub & Grill allows you to park in their parking lot for free if you buy a drink or grab a delicious burger (or any other menu item). They offer a shuttle to and from the ballpark if you prefer not to make the 2 mile walk with other Ranger's fans.

The Rangers Ballpark in Arlington offers seating in and out of the shade. During the hot summer months the shaded seats are more expensive, but for many they are worth the extra cost. Keep in mind though, the evening games are only in the sun for a short time, so if you can stand a little heat for the first few innings, you can save some cash. The ballpark also has delicious food with the menu constantly evolving. You can find all the typical ballpark, but they also feature Nolan Ryan beef, the Boomstick Hot Dog, a 2 foot long hot dog, and new this year waffle cheese fries! (One of my friends, was literally licking the bowl when she tried these!) A little tip: if you are wanting to keep within a budget, you can bring a collapsible cooler with water bottles and other non-alcoholic drinks in plastic bottles. I also bring in my own peanuts and healthy snacks when I don't feel like splurging on tempting ballpark food.

There are over 75 home games left in the season, with ticket prices ranging from $11- $100+, there is a seat for everyone at the Rangers Ballpark. When you go, explore the park and enjoy playing in the Central Field Plaza. Kids of all ages enjoy the Ballpark in Arlington!

Spring Fever

The Dallas/ Fort Worth metroplex has experienced uncharacteristically cloudy, cold weather this year making everyone feel a little claustrophobic. The first official day of Spring was just a couple of days ago and unfortunately this weekend will be in the low to mid 50s. North Texas just can't seem to shake off the cold hands of winter.

So what do you do when you want to experience spring when it's unseasonably cold? Dallas has many indoor and outdoor attractions to lift your spirits!

The newly opened Perot Museum of Nature and Science welcomes hundreds of children (and the children at heart) who wish to explore the wonders of nature and science and broaden their minds in one convenient location. One piece of advice: purchase a ticket online before you go. This place is in high demand and even the general exhibit hall can only contain a few hundred visitors at one time. Thousands of visitors have already roamed its spacious rooms and theater, and you don't want to get stuck waiting outside.

Another classic go-to Dallas preferred outdoor activity: The Dallas Arboretum. Dallas Blooms, the garden's seasonal floral showcase opened March 2 and will delight admirers until April 7th. The botanical gardens recently updated a rain policy which will allow visitors to receive a rain check if the "rain will not go away." So, this weekend could be an opportune time to test the waters. Despite the chill in the air, locals can enjoy nestling together on a blanket, picnic style, while gazing at the colorful floral festival.

Even though the weather might contain a chill, there is no need to simply stay at home for yet another weekend! Hopefully April will bring showers for May flowers, but also a little sun for those of us who want to break free from winter's grasp.