Visiting Lone Star Park in Grand Prairie – places to go – Dallas Lucia pasta – Very small but wonderful restaurant – they make their own pasta and it is perfect! Plan to wait or sit at the bar – located in the Bishop Arts District - While waiting, if you are a chocolate fiend like me, next door is Dudes Chocolates – all dark chocolate in many delicious combinations.

Visiting Louisiana Downs in Bossier City and Evangeline Downs in Opelousas – in between is a wonderful town – Natchitoches – located on the Cane river – very nice local art gallery and great places to eat and be entertained. Most notably Maglieaux’s – pecan crusted shrimp and neat little bar across the street from them- live music sometimes – good pours on their drinks.

Evangeline Downs is very close to Avery Island – where tobacco is made. That is an interesting stop to make plus you can hike or drive the island and the landscaping is breathtaking. Well worth the time. You also need to make your way to Breau Bridge and Des Amis café. The ambiance in great and the food is fabulous – try the crayfish cheesecake. If I am anywhere close – I take the time – a must do!