Thurs, April 22, 2010

If you tend to dream of the next roadtrip this would probably have been a perfect day for you too.  We knew the wildflower crop would be awesome this year because Texas had been receiving copious amounts of rain all winter which is essential for a good wildflower crop.  I had been keeping up with reports via the internet and knew it would just be a matter of time until we were surrounded by bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, Indian blanket and coreopsis.  We were not disappointed! 

The first stop of the morning was at the Richter Cemetery in Round Top, Texas.   A very old cemetery (established in 1847) it was a classic small community cemetery and it was full of flowers.  We like to walk thru cemeteries and read the tombstones anyway but add wall to wall wildflowers and it was a given we would spend a while in this gorgeous setting.

The next stop was the Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic church in Cistern, Texas.  Another small community the church was very old and very well maintained and it had what appeared to be some unique windows.  They appeared to be stained glass but set in concrete.  We were pleasantly surprised to find the door unlocked and were able to enjoy the interior of the church as well.  We have found a number of small community churches keep their doors open even though there is no one around.  It’s a real treat. 

After a BBQ brisket lunch in Blanco, Texas at one of our favorite restaurants, we continued our meanderings thru the Texas countryside enjoying the mild weather and the abundance of wildflowers. By late afternoon we were at the Salt Branch, a remote creek south of Mason Texas with numerous limestone and granite ledges and cascading water.  It’s perfect for picnics, puppy play, or just relaxing into a slumber while listening to the water.

As the sun began to fade we made our way up the James River road toward Mason to scout for possible bluebonnet fields to photograph tomorrow.  We were not disappointed and it was worth staying out until after sunset just to enjoy the sights and smells of huge fields full of bluebonnets.

We are resting comfortably tonight in our usual hotel in Llano, Texas…. But can’t wait to get back out tomorrow to photograph those flowers and enjoy another day outside in the hill country of Texas.

We hope you all are well too.

Peace, Hope & Love,

Donna, Charles, Paris & Dodger

PS  Mom the bladder was a little better today.  Maybe the antibiotic is beginning to work.  We’ll be in Texas at least two more days or until I feel a whole lot better. Love you. 

Comments

[Renee Cumberland]

Just a question about the Salt Branch Mason picture of you and Charles. Was it Dodger or Paris taking the picture, and were they trying to squeeze Dad out of the shot?
Have fun - FOR ME!
Renee