Puttin' on the Ritz - Country Style

If you know anything about me, you know that this is an absolute dream come true for me..... The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco has gone country! For the better part of a week, Texas Roadhouse has bought out every room in the hotel (as well as the Fairmont up the hill). What does this mean for the Ritz? We're sporting cowboy hats, boots and jeans. There's a giant, 20 foot blow-up Armadillo on the roof (his name is Andy and he's their amazing mascot). And I'm loving every second of it!

One of the best parts of this transformation is the positive publicity that Texas Roadhouse has brought with them. In an effort to counter what has been labeled "The AIG Effect", Texas Roadhouse arranged for an interview with NBC to promote business meetings and corporate travel in our current economy. This interview, along with articles and websites such as meetingsmeanbusiness.com (check it out!), are taking a bountiful stand in the fight against business cancelations. While I appreciate those who are holding onto their purse strings, it doesn't take a genius to figure out that as long as money's not moving, this recession isn't going anywhere. And while I'm not suggesting that you go bananas and spend a fortune on a vacation that's out of reach, I'm also not encouraging you to stop spending altogether. I'm a firm believer that there's almost always happiness to be found in the middle. That being said, I'm of course thankful when I see those with deeper pockets spending.

So, I'm throwing out a whopping "THANK YOU!!" to Texas Roadhouse - not only for keeping me employed (at least temporarily)... but for showing that they're not afraid to recognize the dedication and tireless efforts of their star employees... even in these trying times. The next time my tummy is rumbling and I see a T.R. on the horizon, you can bet I'll be swinging by to support them and return the favor.

Now, as my new friends at the Roadhouse would say, "Make it a legendary day!".

Yee-Haw, Y'All!!!