Happy Thanksgiving... and Go Horns!

This Thanksgiving I have so much to be thankful for. My family is healthy, safe, and happy; I have the privilege to attend a great university and learn from amazing teachers; I'm surrounded by great friends in Austin who are always there for me; and it looks like my Texas Longhorns are headed to the Big 12 (and maybe even National) Championship.

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays- I have a huge extended family in Austin and my parents and siblings always come to town to eat with about 40 of my cousins, aunts and uncles at my Aunt Katie's house in Buda. We always make too much food, too much noise, and everyone likes to talk trash to each other in and out of the kitchen.

After we've eaten to our heart's content, football is the name of the game. First we watch the Cowboys, and then attend or tune into the always exciting Texas vs. Texas A&M rivalry game. This year the game is in college station at Kyle Field, so unfortunately I won't be able to go, but that means that we can lounge around and watch the game with extra servings of pumpkin pie. Texas is still undefeated, and I'm not too worried about their game today. Although A&M always brings immense energy to the rivalry game, their 6-5 record doesn't scare me much.

Texas' win against Kansas guaranteed us a spot in the Big 12 Championship, but if we do great against the Aggies today, we're one step closer to the National Championship in Pasadena, California. Hopefully we'll make it all the way, but even if we don't, there's plenty to be thankful for.

Handmade Goodies for your Favorite Longhorn

With the holidays just around the corner (and the ever lurking Black Friday) many people are already thinking about what gifts to get for everyone on their shopping list. If that special someone happens to be a Texas Longhorn fan, this post is for you.

If you're looking for something original and fun, check out Etsy.com, a unique shopping website that is a cross between eBay and a traditional craft fair. With its motto of "Buy, Sell, and Live Handmade" the Etsy website is dedicated to connecting artists, designers and crafters who make original creations with the people who want to buy them.

Along with handmade products, people on Etsy sell vintage items, homemade sweets, and craft supplies. Etsy offers multiple options for paying for items, including credit card, money order, and PayPal (which is a service of eBay).

I've chosen a few of my favorite Longhorn items (hint hint) for the holiday season that I think a variety of Texas fans would enjoy. Here are a few of the best:

Texas Longhorn Cufflinks



These longhorn cufflinks would be a great gift for a dad, brother, uncle or boyfriend who wants to show off his 'horns with style. From CufflinkConnection's Shop, these are just one of many unique pieces available.

Tutu

Any little princess would love this UT tutu and bow set from PolkaDotPrincess. I have a few cousins that would adore this sweet set.
photo: http://ny-image1.etsy.com//il_430xN.100143733.jpg


Apron

Do you have an aspiring chef on your gift list? This reversible longhorn apron from RockyTopBakery would be a perfect present. Even if all they do is burn hot dogs at the tailgate, they will feel like a culinary star wearing this.
photo:

Headband

This sparkly longhorn headband is my absolute favorite. I think I might have to rush order one from EllieKatt myself, so that I can wear it to the national championship game! :)

Embroidered Pillow

I think that this pillow is quirky and fun, and would be a great gift for a mom, grandma, or sister, or even look great in a dorm room. It's from AuntBs' shop, where there are several other designs available as well.

Typewriter Necklace

Another unique piece that I really like is this typewriter necklace from JenniferPerezDesigns. It would be great game day jewelry for any longhorn fan who wants to wear something a little different.

Christmas Ornaments

These ornaments from StickyTatts would be a great gift for just about anyone on your list, including a boss or neighbor. Or if you participate in an ornament exchange, these would be the first to go!


Well those are just a few of the many splendid things on Etsy.com. Take a look for yourself, and I'm sure you can find something out of the ordinary (and usually pretty affordable) for just about anyone. (As a side note- I believe that they do sell some Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and other school's items on the site, but if you have any Aggies or Red Raiders on your gift list, they probably just deserve coal.)