Zilker Botanical Gardens

the missing (travel) link

Here are some random shots of my last driving day..

 There was a semi in my way for the state sign of Texas--bummed me out--I had gotten all the other state crossings.  But there's really no way to stop or back up on a freeway, so the El Paso sign will suffice.

happiest sign I think I've ever seen (until I see one for free shoes)--legally cleared to drive 80!!!

'nuff said

 and after hours of the this rather dreary landscape, one doubly appreciates the speed at which one can get through the part of the state.

in case you were curious, they are magically delicious

interesting mountain

 

I was informed by a native that one is required to stop at the DQ and so, wanting an authentic Texas experience, I did.  Delish peanut-butter milk shake to go with the crispy onion rings.

On the outskirts of Austin--the scenery here reminds me so much of the Willamette Valley.

quirks

 Always an adventure, and usually fun, to figure out a new region's quirks and idiosyncrasies.  I've now learned to heed the weather warnings here.  When they say heavy rain, they mean 3-5 inches within what feels like minutes.  And I now know what the phrase 'sheets of water' looks like.

The winds that accompanied this rain made me realize that I need to quickly replace my plants' original Home Depot plastic pots with some hefty ceramic ones!

And in other local explorations....the main grocery chain here is H.E.B.  I figured that it was the initials of the people who founded it.  Nu-uh.  It stands for.....wait for it....Here.  Everything's.  Better.

Hand to God.

I've been in three different stores and am not really impressed.  Still awaiting the winter opening of the new Trader's in the area.

Solo Symphony--a Dance

Attended an intriguing performance last night.  Got there a bit early and was able to wander around the outdoor stage (that was behind the 4th's fence).

Despite some rather impressive storms (and I now know why Texans stop in the rain--it's torrential and covers the road in an instant), there is still a rather heavy miasma in the air.  Ah well.  It's summer and I'm free to loaf about in flip-flops and not dress up.