McKinney TX Real Estate: Texas: Mc Kinney: Historic District Of Mckinney

Strolling back to my real estate office in beautiful historic downtown McKinney, I stopped into Star Specialty Contempo. Their store front had signs that lured me in. What did these signs say? Circle E Candles - 20% off! For any of you who have heard of Circle E Candles, you know that these candles are by far the BEST smelling candles I've ever encountered. I could literally eat some of them with a spoon - they smell THAT good!

So I strolled in and made a bee-line back to the candle display. I smelled just about each one, not knowing which one would be lucky enough to accompany me back to the office. After all, I really need some more deductions on my taxes for 2009, and a candle is JUST the perfect and necessary "office supply" that I need (wink, wink)!

I chose the Honeysuckle candle. The label said it was good for aromatherapy purposes - it builds self esteem. So for crying out loud, what REALTOR doesn't want to build self esteem? I do! It was a no-brainer.

While checking out I visited with one of the owners, Linda Gentry. I looked at several of the other items her shop had to offer and I was impressed. I knew that I had to share this find with my clients and with other McKinney shoppers! Star Specialty Contempo also offers Crabtree & Evelyn products, Redolere fragrant oil lamps, the fun "drunken chicken cooker", and Timmy Woods handcarved purses! The collection was so interesting - offering something for everyone!

So the next time you are down on the square in McKinney, TX - stop by and say Hi to Linda. They are at 116 N. Tennessee on the East side of the square. Oh, and did I mention that they sell Circle E Candles LESS than anyone else on the square? Go shop!

Have I mentioned just how much I enjoy working on the beautiful historic square in downtown McKinney? Well, in case I haven't - I LOVE IT!

Today is February 26. Winter for all intents and purposes. But McKinney, TX feels like Spring! It's 85 for the high today with sunny skies. That calls for LUNCH ON THE SQUARE! Today's visit brought me walking down to The Londoner at 100 N. Tennessee Street.

The Londoner offers a traditional English Pub atmosphere in one of the most unique buildings on the square. As the anchor for the East side of the courthouse square, it offers a lunch menu with outdoor seating available, dinner, and a lively evening atmosphere in the upstairs bar.

I enjoyed a fresh salad with grilled chicken, eggs, bleu cheese & walnuts, while my friend enjoyed their staple Fish N Chips. It was great! The waitress was friendly and attentive and the atmosphere was relaxing. While I didn't go for a tall glass of Guiness, I would bet they offer a great beer selection for the world beer lover! Go check 'em out!

Working down in the beautiful historic district of McKinney comes with many advantages. One being the number of ADORABLE, UNIQUE places to dine out when lunch hour hits! Move over chain stores, the restaurants on the Square can't be beat!

One place that stands out this week is Poppy's Garden Cafe. The day I went just happened to be a beautiful 60 degree sunny day - yes, in February if you can believe that! I joined my business partner-in-crime and friend for one of the best lunches.

The staff was friendly. The food was incredible. But I think what makes Poppy's stand out is the serene outdoor setting. Even for lunch the environment couldn't be beat! There are bubbling fountains, greenery, covered porch seating & open air sunny dining, outdoor heaters are provided when the air is too chilly and there is an outdoor bar and performing area for weekend evenings. I simply MUST come back with my honey for a romantic evening. Live music is played Friday and Saturday evenings.

The menu offered fresh salads, pasta and comfort foods. We enjoyed a Poppy's Trio (Brie BLT, Potato Soup and house salad for only $9.99), Cobb Salad and Chicken & Artichoke Cannelloni.

I highly recommend Poppy's for a special lunch or dinner treat! They are located south of the square at 107 S. Church Street.