Friday. Freedom. Fun.

Today was a fun Friday because I did something I rarely do. I took a day off from work! And I have to say that it was fabulously refreshing. I slept late, got a massage, and only checked my work email periodically (yes, I know…it’s an obsession).

After Gary got home from work, we packed our bags (well, my bag was still packed from the Orlando trip, but you get the idea) and drove downtown for an overnight stay at the Westin City Central. We’re getting up early for the Tour Dallas ride in the morning and wanted to be close to the starting point. Gary and I will ride our bikes to the staging area and then embark on the 30-mile adventure through Dallas and around White Rock Lake. I’m really excited. This will be my first group ride, and it looks like the weather is going to cooperate this year — no sleet, just sunny skies and cool temps.

We picked up the Tour Dallas packets, rider numbers, t-shirts and other goodies in Dallas’ West End district tonight and then walked over to Gator’s for dinner. It’s been years since I’ve been to Gator’s, but it’s still the same — a casual atmosphere with a rooftop patio that offers nice views of downtown and the West End area. It’s a great place to eat when the weather is nice, and since it was warm we sat outside, watched the sun go down, and enjoyed the rest of the evening before heading to our hotel.

I’ve never been to the Westin City Center before so it was fun exploring the area. It’s located in the center of the arts and financial district and is connected via a 15-story atrium to retail shops, restaurants, businesses, and the Plaza of the Americas indoor ice skating arena. It’s a neat area. Check out the pics below including Gator’s and the Westin City Central.

Gator’s Croc & Roc

Plaza of the Americas Ice Skating Rink and Westin City Central