Days 3 & 4: The Great Lone Star State

If any one of you has ever been to Texas, or known (or even just met) someone from Texas, you probably "get" it---as a state, but more importantly, as the mega-empire of Americana that it truly is. The slow-but-steady evolution of the landscape, from verdant fields and paunchy bayous to the sprawling love child of desert-prairie-meets-suburbia, eventually gives rise to a most fascinating geography that continues its bizarre and ever-growing expansion all the way to New Mexico. Physically arid and almost Mediterranean in parts, big Texas personality is never far; from bold advertising to American-made trucks galore, everything speaks with a certain pride and conviction that just has to be respected. As its strong economy, prominent resources, and impressively unified ideology might indicate, the popular slogan Don't mess with Texas is real, and although it's technically one of the biggest anti-littering campaigns in the U.S., the boldness certainly alludes to the notion that the state really could be on its own.

After taking it all in on the road, the first stop on our Lone Star tour was the capital city of Austin, Texas. Now, we had heard that Austin was "weird", and it became apparent why pretty quickly. One of the few progressive hubs in a sea of conservatism, Austin is retro-active, young, and a definite foodie's paradise. After visiting REI and getting some tips, we headed down to South Congress Avenue to check out the food trailers (yes, trailers) and nightlife. After just a quick and promising preview, we decided to instead call a cab from the hotel and enjoy ourselves, under the pretense of thinking there would be enough activity on a Friday night to substantiate the effort. Much to our disappointment, everything closed too early, and bars were few and far between. We did manage to find some outstanding pizza at Home Slice, and afterward placated our sweet tooth with Amy's Ice Cream, which as far as comfort food goes, absolutely helped soothe our sorrows. We really were sore about missing the live music and "trailer park" opportunities, so it looks like that will have to be a do-over on another trip!

Before departing Austin and hitting the road again, we were privileged enough to catch some time with Daniel Ralleo, my roommate of many years in college, who has now become a busy, young Austin professional. Daniel has been in the city for about a year, and knew just the place to take us for a classic Tex-Mex lunch. After marveling at his perfect pad not far from the city (complete with the most picturesque outdoor space), we filled our bellies with Polvos Interior Mexican in town and said our goodbyes once again. The food and company were just what we needed, and even Bella got to enjoy the reunion---Daniel's matching chocolate Chihuahua, Ollie, was her roommate too, and the only one she will play with! Thank you for your hospitality, Daniel, the Texans must be proud!

Leaving Austin only left us with more vast Texas countryside ahead, but once again, that marvelous landscape transition began anew. This time, hill country really blew our minds---not only are its features lovely, but a myriad of mesmerizing fixtures passed us by; everything from vineyards to venison processing outposts dot this enchantingly unique stretch. By night, the visibility of stars is positively exquisite, and something that just has to be seen to be believed! The drive flirts with the Mexican border, and passes through some interesting small towns, like Pecos, the home of the first rodeo. One can definitely see the enduring fascination with the cowboy's lifestyle, but more than anything else, the passage of time there has left behind a consistently unique image of Americana. This image only fuels the interesting and thrilling sensation, already very present on a trip like this, that you are time-traveling, or perhaps creating your very own experience of every era you've ever had an inkling of. This made a good soundtrack, if you're interested.

Passing the occasional Airstream or abandoned school bus, New Mexico and its rural desert charms are getting closer, and we are so excited for the next stop on our journey, Guadalupe National Park and the famous Carlsbad Caverns!