What a difference...

A year ago today I arrived in Texas to start a new adventure in this thing called life. For a description as to why, I suggest you read my wife's blog post.

Since I've moved I've been surprised at the stereotypes people in the Northwest have about Texas, and which came true or not. Such views are:

Everyone rides a horse: I've actually ridden horses more times than most of the people I've met here.
All Texans are Christian Conservatives: Most of my inner circle can be called Christians, but most don't attend church regularly, if at all. I've met a few of the atheist variety, and a lot are far more liberal than you might think.
There are churches on every corner: This is somewhat accurate as it is all over the South.
Everyone wears cowboy attire: You'll see a few folks wear cowboy hats and boots, but I never see it on a regular basis. As my friend and fellow former Northwesterner Travis pointed out, you see that more in Washington and Oregon.
The beer sucks: Yes Texas doesn't have the over saturation of breweries like the Puget Sound, but there are many places to find good brews none the less. Shiner is a great brewery and comparable to many in Seattle.
Everyone here is fat: While Seattle is known for being the fittest city in the US, I can say that Dallas is very image conscious when it comes to weight. Gyms are always packed and it's known for being up there with Beverly Hills when it comes to plastic surgery.
Everyone listens to country music: A few do, yes, but again it's no more than anywhere else.
It's hotter than the gates of Hades in the summer: Yes this is true.

I can say my experience here so far has been amazing. I packed up my little VW with every item I own, moved down here, got married, bought a house, got the wife a new car, and am now ready for a new adventure. Details to come soon...

"All new states are invested, more or less, by a class of noisy, second-rate men who are always in favor of rash and extreme measures, but Texas was absolutely overrun by such men." - Sam Houston