Chirky

I'm Jes. I live in Dallas, Texas with my husband, a delicious graphic designer named Roger.

I'm a writer for a large international travel company, and I never knew I could be paid to have this much fun. I'm not just saying that because the Latin team brings authentic tacos for breakfast on Fridays, or because someone on our team makes a run to get Sprinkles cupcakes at the mere mention of a sweet tooth. I get to research and write about travel destinations all day long. Please don't kick me.

I was born near Seattle, but moved to Dallas when I was six. I didn't have much of a choice about that. My dog ran away after a few months of life in Texas, and I'm convinced that he ran all the way back to Washington. Sometimes I still wish I could have followed. (Wow, that kind of makes my life sound like a country song.)

I love to travel, to experience new foods and new cultures. I consider a trip a success if I've avoided throngs of tourists and discovered the real heartbeat of the city. In my experience, that heartbeat is generally found among the locals.

Jet fuel makes my heart beat faster (and not because it is so pungent). My husband and I are both filled with wanderlust, always planning our next escape. On most days, I'm longing for a powdery-white beach, a strawberry margarita and the gentle lull of breaking surf. Until then, I've learned how to make my own 'ritas and I've got my ocean waves CD on repeat.

Don't laugh. I was being serious.

Things I like include: cooking, Viva Glam lipglass by MAC, tulip festivals, mixed drinks that don't taste like alcohol, sudoku puzzles, board games, sushi and making lists. Oh, how I love making lists!

Currently, my favorite foods are Indian (Kofta Masala) and Vietnamese (Bun Thit Nuong). I have yet to successfully make either, so I am highly dependent upon local restaurateurs to get my fix.

FOUND ELSEWHERE
Jes writes two wildly popular celebrity blogs for 451 Press. She is also the founder of a food blog, which is yet to be unveiled. (Ooooo la la! The mystery.)