(Community Matters) The drive flew by. We stopped for macaroons at Rather Sweet Bakery & Cafe in Fredericksburg (the second best macarrons in the world) and for lunch in Ozona. Otherwise, a direct trip, and I didn’t even mind driving the entire way despite offers from my two travelmates.
Suzanne Deal Booth is hosting 15 friends in Marfa as part of the Friends of Heritage Preservation. The group has funded a preservation project at Chinati.
Kevin Keim and I joined Suzanne and a few early arrivals for dinner at Maiya’s (John, formerly of Adobe BBQ, our waiter and Rachel & Chase Lindley having dinner with her parents) , then drinks at a very cool new Marfa establishment, Padre’s Marfa – a well-stocked bar with the best tequillas, food, a dance floor, outdoor patio, firepits, shuffle board, pool, pinball and great character. St James’ friends might know this place since Father Bill (Miller) is the founding partner (though he’s still in Hawaii).
Between Maiya’s and Padre’s, Suzanne & I snuck over to Cochineal to say hi to friends. Everyone having dinner there tonight, though Kevin and I with owners Tom & Tochi rather than with the large group. We found Fairfax Dorn who then joined us at Padre’s.
There are six-early bird arrivals, the others flying in today – including Suzanne’s hubby, David. Spent most of my time last night talking with Peter & Sue Cooper. What a fabulous, Kiwi couple, and talk about a small world! Sue knew my first lover, Alan Waite in Auckland. Peter was describing an extraordinary downtown Auckland development and his plans to integrate art and technology – wow, this conversation won’t quit following me! Also, he’s quite interested in social entrepreneurship in university curriculum in his role as a Georgetown University trustee – much to discuss.
Dean Ma traveling with the group, USC’s Dean of the School of Architecture. Very interested to hear more about his project in Mangolia.
Of course coffee at Jessie & Dan Browning’s Farma Coffee this am – such a treat seeing Jessie again. The FOHP group off touring Judd Foundation properties now. We have a lecture/lunch at Austin Street Cafe, then this evening Julie Speed hosting a reception in her studio, the premier of two short films at the Crowley Theatre, then dinner at Cochineal.
I’m lounging in the Paisano’s lobby this morning – no wifi at the house. Have confirmed my holds on all the suites and the four corner rooms that share the large balaconies over the courtyard for Dec 30 – Jan 1. Friends coming to our New Year’s party this year should let me know which of these rooms they want – first come, first served.
I miss Steven and would love to be in London seeing Punchdrunk’s newest production. And, Marfa is exactly where I need to be today and this weekend – feels great.