Texas

Heading south and passing through Dallas we made it to Austin to stay with Kaila’s cousins Katie and Travis.  We were greatly anticipating our arrival – both to see them and to enjoy their pool! We settled into the cool oasis and got acquainted with our entertaining little cousins, Jack and Julia.

Captain America AKA Jack with Kaila

After recharging for a couple of days and enjoying some great Southern Hospitality, we decided to take a day trip to San Antonio.  Our first stop was the Alamo, which was an exciting piece of history to see.  We then headed to the city’s famed River Walk: man-made waterway through the heart of the city which features restaurants, shops and river boat cruises. We strolled through the Walk and were even welcomed by a little piece of home – rain!  

A View of the River Walk

Our last venture in Texas was Downtown Austin.  We first stopped at the Capitol Building which seemed to perfectly epitomize the Lone Star State; everything in and about the building was over sized and over the top, but it was very enjoyable and well done. After leaving the capitol we walked around Congress Avenue which was much like Hawthorne Street in Portland. While there we enjoyed vintage shops and to Brian’s enjoyment we tasted some delicious homemade ice cream.  As the sun went down we headed to the “Bat Bridge” where we got to witness thousands of bats take their nightly flight from under the structure.  

The Giant Capitol Building

We had a great visit to Texas, having had the opportunity to spend time with family and experience the sites. We also learned that what people say about the Lone Star State is accurate: Texas is truly its own unique world.

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