Not all travel involves vehicles. My seven-year journey that ended today was one of time. During this period, I served as a weekend nurse in a hospital unit, working 7 a.m. till 7:30 p.m., every Saturday and Sunday, if I was fortunate enough not to work overtime. Thus, I couldn't attend regular weekend Masses at my parish church.
Raised on the importance of the Ten Commandments, I believe that "Keep holy the Lord's Day" means participating at church on Saturday evening or Sunday, renewing one's spirit, not engaging in what is called 'servile' work, namely, work for money. When I first took the weekend job, I came into work at 10 a.m. I went to the early service then directly to work in my uniform. That quickly changed when I had a new boss. Then I had to wrestle with the question, "Should I quit this job so I could go to church every weekend?" I decided that I was too old to get another job. Besides, working only two days a week saved my health! Direct patient care is hard work!
This morning at church was perfect: the greeters were friendly, the morning sun highlighted the colorful stained-glass windows depicting various major saints, the congregation filled the church to capacity, I chatted with old friends afterwards at the reception for a priest leaving for another assignment, the singing was spirited, and I was thrilled at last to be at my own home church on Sunday.
As I listened to the song leader, my thoughts went back to the time I started organ lessons, at age 13, and subsequently began a long history of working as an organist at various churches where I lived. Those involved in music have to, of course, pay close attention to what they are doing even though they are all experienced. That makes it harder to listen to the prayers and sermon. From age 14 to age 50, I spent a total of fifteen years as church organist/pianist, working every weekend.
Then I thought of other years when I worked as a regular nurse working every other weekend, thirteen years. One time, when I worked night shift and attended Sunday morning Mass with daughter #8, Jeannie, I told her, "If I fall asleep, don't wake me unless I snore!" Trust me, she didn't allow this to happen. She was very vigilant and elbowed me as necessary.
Let's count: seven plus fifteen plus thirteen equals thirty-five years - half my life! So, as they say, I've 'paid my dues' in the world of work.
Privileged as I now am to come to and enjoy fully the church service, I thought of all the other singers, musicians, greeters, Eucharistic ministers, proclaimers of the Word, and those who pass the collection baskets who make the Mass go smoothly. As important as that volunteer work is, I will avoid engaging in it on weekends. I must be fully present, for now and perhaps, forever.
My thoughts also drifted to other countries who do not enjoy our hard-won religious freedom. There were more Christian martyrs in the twentieth century than all the other centuries combined since Jesus lived. Christians are persecuted in many areas even today. We Americans need to think we could easily lose this freedom! We must be vigilant!
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Saturday, June 29, 2013
Reverse Travel: Fun, Too!
Since I'm always blogging about the wonderful people and places to which I travel, thought I'd do an 'about face' and tell of the wonderful folks who came to see me tonight. I was honored and privileged to be the guest of honor at my Retirement Party! My daughters, both the in-town and out-of-town ones, planned a fantastic Beach Party at a Lexington, Kentucky, lodge.
The farthest-away travelers were from Seattle, Texas and Boston. It's remarkable how many out-of-town family the Lexington-area relatives can 'absorb' into their homes! Many friends and family came from Lexington, some from Ohio and plenty from other towns in Kentucky. Two pals wore grass skirts! Guests received a lei when they first entered the beach scene and were asked to sign a Guest Book. Some wore colorful shirts bought in Hawaii, including my son-in-law, Fielding, recently stationed there.
There were groups in several rooms and on the patio. A bountiful display of finger foods, punch and other beverages was enjoyed by all. When Theresa, daughter #4, brought out the Beach Cake (really too beautiful to cut!), everyone came out to the patio. Michael, the second-youngest grandchild there, helped me to cut the cake.
Despite the 'No Presents, Please' request on the invitations, I received many thoughtful greeting cards, several very lovely presents, and some gift cards. A photographer snapped many photos; when I receive them, I'll post some of them in this blog entry.
If you're invited to a wedding, a party of almost any nature, please make every effort to attend. I tell you from experience, someone values you enough to invite you! You will honor them by your presence. Please don't think that you won't make a difference because there will be a large group. If you come, you will greatly contribute to the festivities. If you don't, you WILL be missed!
After I came home tonight, I read each and every card again. I will treasure the fine memories, the stories and jokes exchanged, the friendships renewed and new ones started, the children prancing about and all the beach decorations for the rest of my life!
The farthest-away travelers were from Seattle, Texas and Boston. It's remarkable how many out-of-town family the Lexington-area relatives can 'absorb' into their homes! Many friends and family came from Lexington, some from Ohio and plenty from other towns in Kentucky. Two pals wore grass skirts! Guests received a lei when they first entered the beach scene and were asked to sign a Guest Book. Some wore colorful shirts bought in Hawaii, including my son-in-law, Fielding, recently stationed there.
There were groups in several rooms and on the patio. A bountiful display of finger foods, punch and other beverages was enjoyed by all. When Theresa, daughter #4, brought out the Beach Cake (really too beautiful to cut!), everyone came out to the patio. Michael, the second-youngest grandchild there, helped me to cut the cake.
Despite the 'No Presents, Please' request on the invitations, I received many thoughtful greeting cards, several very lovely presents, and some gift cards. A photographer snapped many photos; when I receive them, I'll post some of them in this blog entry.
If you're invited to a wedding, a party of almost any nature, please make every effort to attend. I tell you from experience, someone values you enough to invite you! You will honor them by your presence. Please don't think that you won't make a difference because there will be a large group. If you come, you will greatly contribute to the festivities. If you don't, you WILL be missed!
After I came home tonight, I read each and every card again. I will treasure the fine memories, the stories and jokes exchanged, the friendships renewed and new ones started, the children prancing about and all the beach decorations for the rest of my life!
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Random Reflections
Here's a few thoughts about what I've learned or felt on my three-week journey:
1. I'm blessed with an incredible, wonderful family, Patty & Raj with children, Mallory & Johnny; my baby brother, Don and lovely Irish sister-in-law, Kathleen, and my dear friend, Dorothy. They have interrupted their lives for my visit and have treated my friend, Peggy, and me like Queens. "Thank You" is in no way adequate!
2. The big, beautiful United States of America is a TREASURE we can never take for granted. It was bought for us at a terrible price of many lives dedicated to freedom. Compared to other countries, we are young and had better learn their tragic lessons of failure.
3. Texas is so huge you could probably put the world's whole population in it and feed it.
4. I will sell the mineral rights to my small 1/2 acre lot if you're interested.
5. I thought all the guys in Texas would look like cowboys! What I observed: no ten-gallon hats, no boots, no giant belt buckles, just ordinary Americans. FYI: maybe this 'pre-conceived notion' mirrors the idea that more air travelers than I can count over the years thought about us Kentuckians. I've been asked, over and over, "Do you wear shoes there?"
6. Without Peggy, AAA and the GPS, I couldn't have done this expedition of a trip!
7. I love Comfort Suites, McDonalds, Walmart, the Catholic Churches, my 2007 Toyota Camry (31 mpg this trip!, made in Georgetown, KY), cell phones, free wi-fi, my Kodak camera, Shell gas stations, palm trees and sea life.
8. Peggy and I praised God for our safety each and every day.
9. "Adopt-a-Highway" signs are everywhere. I think this means that the individuals or groups will pick up the trash. How generous!
10. It's so nice to drive instead of fly on a vacation! We had the car positively packed tight! And we didn't have to worry about size or weight when we bought souvenirs.
11. I brought a new knitting project but never even started. Peggy brought a baby afghan she was hoping to complete and worked on it several times.
12. Even though the America is a young country, we have so much history! I wish I could take twenty years just to study our history!
13. We managed to severely restrict our souvenir buying since we're both Senior Citizens. Wish we could have restricted our eating! We ate like Queens! (Now we can diet!)
14. Next vacation, I'll bring a purse with more pockets. The one I brought was large and it had a lovely palm tree and beach scene on the front. There seemed to be no end to the amount of things I could stuff in it!
15. I also love power cables and chargers: computer, phone, camera & Kindle. It helped to put them all in one place.
16. The motel/hotel coupon books at state Welcome Centers were very useful. We usually called ahead for reservations. Next time, I'll be proactive and print them before the trip.
17. We LOVE State Welcome Centers!! Florida's even gave out cups of orange juice.
18. Yesterday, on our last day, Peggy and I were thinking of possible future trips: 1) Virginia north to New Jersey to Boston then Canada then south to Wisconsin then home; 2) West to the southern California coast then north to Seattle then home; 3) Amtrak anywhere; 4) Get a Europass, or 5) Do a river cruise on the Rhine River and see the castles . .endless possibilities. . .
19. With 3,000+ miles together, glimpsing oil pumps, electric power plants, one wind generator and gasoline refining plants, we had time to philosophize on the question about What is the Power of the Universe? The Sun? Magnetism? No, it is Prayer: reaching out and connecting with our Creator.
20. I so appreciate how having weekends off forever! On my last nursing job, I spent seven years working weekends only, the job Peggy had before she retired. It is especially wonderful to be able to go to church on Sundays, the Day of the Lord, when everyone else goes. FYI: I also very much appreciate how every Catholic Church, no matter where it is in the world, has the exact same church service, the Mass.
21. Peggy and I do not take our good health for granted! We never thought we'd be able to climb the 219 steps to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse but we thought we'd try - and we did it!
22. We love all the large, modern generic Shopping Malls but also love the small, unique shops. In a tiny St. Augustine shop, I bought a handcrafted Shell Decoration that I had in mind for many years. I asked the owner if he was on the internet. He said, "No, I tried that in New Mexico. I ended up with 40 shops. I hated every day. Here my wife and I have enough business we can handle ourselves."
23. My favorite souvenirs of the trip are a NASA mousepad with a 3-D photo of earth from space; a plain, tall statue of Jesus with his arms extended, and cactus jelly.
24. Peggy and I both have sons at home who took excellent care of things in Lexington for us while we were away. Thank you, John, and thank you, Billy Frank.
25. Back in Lexington, I have a new attitude toward rush-hour traffic: it's not to compare to that in the giant cities we visited. Kentucky still has the Interstate Highways in best repair and the cleanest rest areas with Florida close behind.
1. I'm blessed with an incredible, wonderful family, Patty & Raj with children, Mallory & Johnny; my baby brother, Don and lovely Irish sister-in-law, Kathleen, and my dear friend, Dorothy. They have interrupted their lives for my visit and have treated my friend, Peggy, and me like Queens. "Thank You" is in no way adequate!
2. The big, beautiful United States of America is a TREASURE we can never take for granted. It was bought for us at a terrible price of many lives dedicated to freedom. Compared to other countries, we are young and had better learn their tragic lessons of failure.
3. Texas is so huge you could probably put the world's whole population in it and feed it.
4. I will sell the mineral rights to my small 1/2 acre lot if you're interested.
5. I thought all the guys in Texas would look like cowboys! What I observed: no ten-gallon hats, no boots, no giant belt buckles, just ordinary Americans. FYI: maybe this 'pre-conceived notion' mirrors the idea that more air travelers than I can count over the years thought about us Kentuckians. I've been asked, over and over, "Do you wear shoes there?"
6. Without Peggy, AAA and the GPS, I couldn't have done this expedition of a trip!
7. I love Comfort Suites, McDonalds, Walmart, the Catholic Churches, my 2007 Toyota Camry (31 mpg this trip!, made in Georgetown, KY), cell phones, free wi-fi, my Kodak camera, Shell gas stations, palm trees and sea life.
8. Peggy and I praised God for our safety each and every day.
9. "Adopt-a-Highway" signs are everywhere. I think this means that the individuals or groups will pick up the trash. How generous!
10. It's so nice to drive instead of fly on a vacation! We had the car positively packed tight! And we didn't have to worry about size or weight when we bought souvenirs.
11. I brought a new knitting project but never even started. Peggy brought a baby afghan she was hoping to complete and worked on it several times.
12. Even though the America is a young country, we have so much history! I wish I could take twenty years just to study our history!
13. We managed to severely restrict our souvenir buying since we're both Senior Citizens. Wish we could have restricted our eating! We ate like Queens! (Now we can diet!)
14. Next vacation, I'll bring a purse with more pockets. The one I brought was large and it had a lovely palm tree and beach scene on the front. There seemed to be no end to the amount of things I could stuff in it!
15. I also love power cables and chargers: computer, phone, camera & Kindle. It helped to put them all in one place.
16. The motel/hotel coupon books at state Welcome Centers were very useful. We usually called ahead for reservations. Next time, I'll be proactive and print them before the trip.
17. We LOVE State Welcome Centers!! Florida's even gave out cups of orange juice.
18. Yesterday, on our last day, Peggy and I were thinking of possible future trips: 1) Virginia north to New Jersey to Boston then Canada then south to Wisconsin then home; 2) West to the southern California coast then north to Seattle then home; 3) Amtrak anywhere; 4) Get a Europass, or 5) Do a river cruise on the Rhine River and see the castles . .endless possibilities. . .
19. With 3,000+ miles together, glimpsing oil pumps, electric power plants, one wind generator and gasoline refining plants, we had time to philosophize on the question about What is the Power of the Universe? The Sun? Magnetism? No, it is Prayer: reaching out and connecting with our Creator.
20. I so appreciate how having weekends off forever! On my last nursing job, I spent seven years working weekends only, the job Peggy had before she retired. It is especially wonderful to be able to go to church on Sundays, the Day of the Lord, when everyone else goes. FYI: I also very much appreciate how every Catholic Church, no matter where it is in the world, has the exact same church service, the Mass.
21. Peggy and I do not take our good health for granted! We never thought we'd be able to climb the 219 steps to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse but we thought we'd try - and we did it!
22. We love all the large, modern generic Shopping Malls but also love the small, unique shops. In a tiny St. Augustine shop, I bought a handcrafted Shell Decoration that I had in mind for many years. I asked the owner if he was on the internet. He said, "No, I tried that in New Mexico. I ended up with 40 shops. I hated every day. Here my wife and I have enough business we can handle ourselves."
23. My favorite souvenirs of the trip are a NASA mousepad with a 3-D photo of earth from space; a plain, tall statue of Jesus with his arms extended, and cactus jelly.
24. Peggy and I both have sons at home who took excellent care of things in Lexington for us while we were away. Thank you, John, and thank you, Billy Frank.
25. Back in Lexington, I have a new attitude toward rush-hour traffic: it's not to compare to that in the giant cities we visited. Kentucky still has the Interstate Highways in best repair and the cleanest rest areas with Florida close behind.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Home! Home!!
The farther I roam from home, the happier I am to return - it never fails! Now I'm home to my beloved Kentucky, most beautiful state in the union, most civilized place in the universe! And soon I'll be home to my own bed, quiet and peaceful, soothing, as I'm really tired.
The final count of miles traveled in my 2007 Toyota Camry: 3,667 in 3 weeks. Wow! Added to that are the unknown miles riding about with my daughter, Patty and family in Jacksonville, Florida, my brother, Don and sister-in-law, Kathleen, in Port Lucie, Florida, and Peggy and my mutual friend, Dorothy, in Texas.
Today, Wednesday, Peggy and I drove from our overnight stay in Priceville, Alabama, straight north on I-65 to Elizabethtown, Kentucky. From there we took the Bluegrass Parkway east to Lexington. The Kentucky highways have many rock outcroppings through the state, some of rare geological value. Now that we've seen the great immense state of Texas, when we saw the small farms with their 'midget' silos, few in number, we immediately saw a huge contrast. But the Kentucky corn is taller! (in our 'midget' fields!)
Close to the Bluegrass Parkway in Kentucky, we whipped in to a truck stop to fill up with gas and use the facilities. Tucked in a nearby grassy cove was an Amish mother and children with a lovely display of handmade baskets and quilts. I wish we could have parked and shopped. The traffic prevented this but we were pleased that the quick photo taken has preserved this memory.
Part of the travel experience is un-packing, cleaning out the car, sorting out the souvenirs, maps and travel guides. Tomorrow I'll tackle another mountain of laundry and sort out my Reflections.
The final count of miles traveled in my 2007 Toyota Camry: 3,667 in 3 weeks. Wow! Added to that are the unknown miles riding about with my daughter, Patty and family in Jacksonville, Florida, my brother, Don and sister-in-law, Kathleen, in Port Lucie, Florida, and Peggy and my mutual friend, Dorothy, in Texas.
Today, Wednesday, Peggy and I drove from our overnight stay in Priceville, Alabama, straight north on I-65 to Elizabethtown, Kentucky. From there we took the Bluegrass Parkway east to Lexington. The Kentucky highways have many rock outcroppings through the state, some of rare geological value. Now that we've seen the great immense state of Texas, when we saw the small farms with their 'midget' silos, few in number, we immediately saw a huge contrast. But the Kentucky corn is taller! (in our 'midget' fields!)
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| Rocket near Huntsville, Alabama |
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| Skyline, Nashville, Tennessee |
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| Amish Family near Elizabethtown, Kentucky |
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
An Exciting Change of Plans
This morning, Tuesday, I woke up pondering Peggy and my options for the rest of our whirlwind three-week "Celebrate Retirement!" Trip: #1) go directly home? (but I'm not expected until Wednesday at dinner time - why upset the applecart?), #2) fight Memphis rush hour traffic to spend time on the river? (groan! I hate rush hour traffic! Besides, we know what the river looks like.) or #3) I wonder how far it is to Hanceville, Alabama?
Last spring, when I first decided where and when I wanted to travel, I sent away for tourist guides and maps from all eleven states I'd be passing through. I kept those from the Florida Panhandle west to Texas and Peggy kept those from Lexington, Kentucky, south to Port St. Lucie, Florida. We made notes about the locations we'd particularly like to see because there were several 'free', uncommitted days. Then we exchanged piles. Finally we had lunch together and planned strategy to coincide with my relatives' plans.
When traveling WEST through Alabama on the way to Texas, we noticed that one of our desired 'free day' destinations was Hanceville, the location of The Blessed Sacrament Shrine, home of the nuns of Mother Angelica, founder of our favorite TV station, EWTN, Eternal Word Television Network, the global Catholic TV station. Hanceville was just too far north for us to consider a deviation from the planned trek to Texas. But now, how close are we to Hanceville?
Peggy and I chatted, I mapquested the distance and found Hanceville is extremely close to I-65-north, the LAST interstate road to Kentucky! We could both visit the Shrine in Hanceville and return home on time!! We agreed: Hanceville was the best course! Pack up, head out, set the GPS for Hanceville!
From the Memphis area, we dipped south again to Mississippi. In Corinth, Mississippi, I remembered that my dad used to work here, in his youth. His mother, Hetty Maybelle, was living slightly north, in Savannah, Tennessee, at the time of her death in the 1970's. This was close to Saltillo, Tennessee, dad's birthplace in 1914. I vow to return soon.
The Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament is pleasantly way out in the country on two-lane roads where you take the yellow arrow signs on the curves seriously and slow down. When we first see the entrance, we are already enchanted. This is much better than expected.
Following the winding road to the church, we are intrigued by the perfect grounds and the far-away mountain vista. At last the church appears, incredibly much larger than we imagined from seeing it on EWTN-TV.
Something unanticipated is the large gift shop, St. Michael's Castle. We rush to visit this because it closes earlier than the church. Inside, it is a wonder of knight's armor, 'castle' decor. We have just enough time to search through the treasures of what Mother Angelica calls, "holy reminders," objects such as pictures, statues, rosaries, books, etc., that direct our attention to the Divine, holy persons.
Next we visit the church at Adoration Time. Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is exposed high above the altar. A sign requests silence, appropriate dress, and no photographs. The grandeur and beauty and holiness of this church is really inexpressible. Treat yourself to a pilgrimage here someday. Peggy and I are so delighted with the church, the grounds, various other quiet places to meditate, that we hope our friends at our home church in Lexington, Christ the King, will also come. One short visit is not enough!
We carefully stow our purchases in the car, once again drive through the back roads and at last, are on Highway Interstate 65!! We'll be home tomorrow! We muse that when far-flung friends and family get to visit, it is an exciting time, like a shot of Vitamin B-12 (we make NO apologies for being nurses; that is what we are!). For us, this whole trip has been like a shot of Vitamin B-1000!
Last spring, when I first decided where and when I wanted to travel, I sent away for tourist guides and maps from all eleven states I'd be passing through. I kept those from the Florida Panhandle west to Texas and Peggy kept those from Lexington, Kentucky, south to Port St. Lucie, Florida. We made notes about the locations we'd particularly like to see because there were several 'free', uncommitted days. Then we exchanged piles. Finally we had lunch together and planned strategy to coincide with my relatives' plans.
When traveling WEST through Alabama on the way to Texas, we noticed that one of our desired 'free day' destinations was Hanceville, the location of The Blessed Sacrament Shrine, home of the nuns of Mother Angelica, founder of our favorite TV station, EWTN, Eternal Word Television Network, the global Catholic TV station. Hanceville was just too far north for us to consider a deviation from the planned trek to Texas. But now, how close are we to Hanceville?
Peggy and I chatted, I mapquested the distance and found Hanceville is extremely close to I-65-north, the LAST interstate road to Kentucky! We could both visit the Shrine in Hanceville and return home on time!! We agreed: Hanceville was the best course! Pack up, head out, set the GPS for Hanceville!
From the Memphis area, we dipped south again to Mississippi. In Corinth, Mississippi, I remembered that my dad used to work here, in his youth. His mother, Hetty Maybelle, was living slightly north, in Savannah, Tennessee, at the time of her death in the 1970's. This was close to Saltillo, Tennessee, dad's birthplace in 1914. I vow to return soon.
The Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament is pleasantly way out in the country on two-lane roads where you take the yellow arrow signs on the curves seriously and slow down. When we first see the entrance, we are already enchanted. This is much better than expected.
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| Entrance gates, Most Blessed Sacrament Shrine, Hanceville, Alabama |
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| Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, Hanceville, Alabama |
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| Castle San Miguel, Gift Shop and Offices at Blessed Sacrament Shrine, Hanceville, Alabama |
Next we visit the church at Adoration Time. Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament is exposed high above the altar. A sign requests silence, appropriate dress, and no photographs. The grandeur and beauty and holiness of this church is really inexpressible. Treat yourself to a pilgrimage here someday. Peggy and I are so delighted with the church, the grounds, various other quiet places to meditate, that we hope our friends at our home church in Lexington, Christ the King, will also come. One short visit is not enough!
We carefully stow our purchases in the car, once again drive through the back roads and at last, are on Highway Interstate 65!! We'll be home tomorrow! We muse that when far-flung friends and family get to visit, it is an exciting time, like a shot of Vitamin B-12 (we make NO apologies for being nurses; that is what we are!). For us, this whole trip has been like a shot of Vitamin B-1000!
Eastward Bound! (Mon., June 24, 2013)
This morning Peggy and I got up later than usual and lingered over breakfast till 9:30. After a quick stop to fill up the car's gas tank and dump fresh ice in the cooler, we were refreshed and ready for another day on the road. From Marshall, we motored easily to Texarkana, Texas/Arkansas, then northeast to Little Rock, Arkansas. A mileage check as we crossed the Arkansas state line showed how many miles we've traveled so far, since leaving Lexington, Kentucky on Thursday, June 6: 2,778! Peggy said, "That's shocking!" And it doesn't included days of riding with Patty, Don, and Dorothy. Truly awesome!
In Arkansas, we passed many cornfields with the tallest corn we've ever seen. This part of Arkansas, I-30 to Little Rock and I-40 beyond, is lush green. Twice, in the distance, we saw large plumes of grey smoke. At first, we were alarmed. Then we realized, these must be controlled burnings of particular fields.
Oh, the Interstates! We appreciate them much more now!
We were thrilled by the increasingly taller hills and winding roads in Arkansas. This so reminds us of our home, Kentucky! Does this mean we may be homesick?
By late afternoon, we had reached our driving goal for the day: Memphis, Tennessee. It was fun to drive over the very wide Mississippi River. We actually saw a paddlewheel riverboat close to the middle of the river.
To the left of the bridge is the bright, gleaming silver Pyramid Arena. Peggy googled it to see what it is, a civic arena, the sixth largest pyramid in the world, behind the ancient pyramid of Giza, Egypt. Memphis is an area in Egypt famous for its pyramids.
When we paged through the travel brochures Sunday night, we found many places overlooking the Mississippi River we would like to visit. Perhaps a special dinner and time to watch the sun set? Fatigue trumped our desires and we finally found a hotel for the night in Cordova, Tennessee. The River will wait until tomorrow.
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| Oh, Yes, Welcome to Beautiful Arkansas!! |
In Arkansas, we passed many cornfields with the tallest corn we've ever seen. This part of Arkansas, I-30 to Little Rock and I-40 beyond, is lush green. Twice, in the distance, we saw large plumes of grey smoke. At first, we were alarmed. Then we realized, these must be controlled burnings of particular fields.
Oh, the Interstates! We appreciate them much more now!
We were thrilled by the increasingly taller hills and winding roads in Arkansas. This so reminds us of our home, Kentucky! Does this mean we may be homesick?
By late afternoon, we had reached our driving goal for the day: Memphis, Tennessee. It was fun to drive over the very wide Mississippi River. We actually saw a paddlewheel riverboat close to the middle of the river.
To the left of the bridge is the bright, gleaming silver Pyramid Arena. Peggy googled it to see what it is, a civic arena, the sixth largest pyramid in the world, behind the ancient pyramid of Giza, Egypt. Memphis is an area in Egypt famous for its pyramids.
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| Pyramid Arena in Memphis, Tennessee |
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| Skyline, Memphis, Tennessee |
Even More of Texas! (Texas #5, Sun., June 23, 2013)
After our Most Excellent Visit with our dear friend, Dorothy, Peggy and I were ready to head back to Kentucky and home! Our packing routine in the car has become an easy habit. We know where everything fits and can be on the road in 10 minutes. Another sweet round of good-bye hugs, invitations to come visit, and we're on our way.
Entering Texas last Wednesday on Interstate-10, we were used to the reliable comforts of interstate roads through the states of Kentucky, Tennessee, North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. From the reasonably spaced, clean rest stops and official state "Welcome Centers" to the almost generic roadside scenery of trees, wildflowers, and grass, we had come to expect these conveniences.
It was not to continue in Texas: we went 'back to the past' and lack of nearly all conveniences. God Bless Texas and God Bless McDonalds, our new unofficial Rest Stops! In Texas' defense, we can only imagine the thousands of miles of roads to be maintained, more than many states together.
From Victoria to Houston, a familiar road, and we continued through the immense metropolis of Houston. Peggy counted seven layers of highways at one point.
We chose the follow the AAA TripTik choice of routes, U.S.-59 North. A 'U.S.' highway, we find, is much different than an Interstate highway. It may be mostly 4-lane, divided, but there the resemblance ends. There is NO limited access to the road from businesses, homes, etc. At first, it was unnerving to watch folks back out of their driveways onto OUR highway. After driving for a few hours, we were used to the change of speed limits and adjusting of cruise control for each and every small community.
What we experienced in return for our petty grumbling was more than worth it: a large slice of the REAL AMERICA! What we saw exhibited everywhere is PRIDE in America. I'd estimate there were maybe four pieces of trash along U.S.-59. Wow! There is order everywhere. There are well-kept homes, communities, churches, shopping areas, schools and parks. To be sure, there are homes of rich folks, poor folks and everything in between. There were a few unpainted, boarded-up, abandoned buildings but they did not stand out or dominate the landscape. Especially awesome were the varied landscaping, on purpose, and the native trees along the highway. We marveled at the groves of flowering pink mimosa trees everywhere. Our attempts to photograph the pink groves resulted in blurred photos. But we'll remember!
Gradually the flat, parched, oil fields-type land in Texas changed to greener, slightly hilly country in the north. To reach Texarkana, Texas/Arkansas was our goal for the day but we tired out at and stopped in Marshall, Texas. Our trip remained happily on schedule and we could rest.
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| Dorothy's Lovely Texas Home |
It was not to continue in Texas: we went 'back to the past' and lack of nearly all conveniences. God Bless Texas and God Bless McDonalds, our new unofficial Rest Stops! In Texas' defense, we can only imagine the thousands of miles of roads to be maintained, more than many states together.
From Victoria to Houston, a familiar road, and we continued through the immense metropolis of Houston. Peggy counted seven layers of highways at one point.
We chose the follow the AAA TripTik choice of routes, U.S.-59 North. A 'U.S.' highway, we find, is much different than an Interstate highway. It may be mostly 4-lane, divided, but there the resemblance ends. There is NO limited access to the road from businesses, homes, etc. At first, it was unnerving to watch folks back out of their driveways onto OUR highway. After driving for a few hours, we were used to the change of speed limits and adjusting of cruise control for each and every small community.
What we experienced in return for our petty grumbling was more than worth it: a large slice of the REAL AMERICA! What we saw exhibited everywhere is PRIDE in America. I'd estimate there were maybe four pieces of trash along U.S.-59. Wow! There is order everywhere. There are well-kept homes, communities, churches, shopping areas, schools and parks. To be sure, there are homes of rich folks, poor folks and everything in between. There were a few unpainted, boarded-up, abandoned buildings but they did not stand out or dominate the landscape. Especially awesome were the varied landscaping, on purpose, and the native trees along the highway. We marveled at the groves of flowering pink mimosa trees everywhere. Our attempts to photograph the pink groves resulted in blurred photos. But we'll remember!
Gradually the flat, parched, oil fields-type land in Texas changed to greener, slightly hilly country in the north. To reach Texarkana, Texas/Arkansas was our goal for the day but we tired out at and stopped in Marshall, Texas. Our trip remained happily on schedule and we could rest.
Monday, June 24, 2013
More San Antonio (Texas #4, Sat., June 22, 2013)
Cathy, Daughter #3, and her husband, Ken, moved from Olathe, Kansas, to Austin, Texas, last month. Cathy and Ken came to our Marriott Riverwalk Hotel room to meet Dorothy, Peggy, and me. There could be no more convenient place to start our RiverWalk Tour together! Cathy remembered, "I saw it (RiverWalk) in the rain when we visited Granny and Grandpa years ago but didn't see much."
First, we wanted to see all the waterways from a boat. The open boats are plentiful, fairly inexpensive and fun with mellow, experienced, informed guides. All of the buildings on the river have their own history and impressive architecture, both traditional and modern.
We leisurely strolled through much of the walkways. The ducks both in and out of the water were entertaining. It was 100 degrees in the city but we didn't notice the heat in the shade of the walk. The five of us decided to choose a restaurant for lunch. Cafe Ole appealed to us and we were seated quickly. Before our authentic Mexican fare arrived, we were treated to a serenade from a Mariachi Band. This was definitely one of the highlights of our day! They were quite professional and spirited!
After our fine meal, Cathy and Ken decided to visit The Alamo. Dorothy, Peggy and I wanted to travel to other sites. Following hugs all around, the happy group split.
Dorothy kindly drove us to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery where my parents are buried. I appreciated this rare opportunity. After saying several short prayers, I was content and we left. A short distance away was The USAA Towers where my parents lived before their deaths. I wanted to see how it looked after ten years (the same as before).
The three of us old friends were tired and journeyed back to Victoria. Peggy and I wanted to start our 1,200-mile trip back to Kentucky early the next morning so we all went to Dorothy's church for the weekend Mass. This was Father Dan's first service in his new assignment. Peggy and I felt confident that Dorothy would enjoy getting to know her new pastor. After another fine seafood supper, we returned to Dorothy's house, packed, chatted a bit more and went to bed with great memories of another happy Texas voyage.
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| From left: Ken, Cathy, and Jan on San Antonio's RiverWalk |
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| An Island in the River |
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| Our boat guide, Jeff, mentioned that there were over 400 varieties of native plants along the RiverWalk. |
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| Every building was historic and attractive. |
We leisurely strolled through much of the walkways. The ducks both in and out of the water were entertaining. It was 100 degrees in the city but we didn't notice the heat in the shade of the walk. The five of us decided to choose a restaurant for lunch. Cafe Ole appealed to us and we were seated quickly. Before our authentic Mexican fare arrived, we were treated to a serenade from a Mariachi Band. This was definitely one of the highlights of our day! They were quite professional and spirited!
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| Mariachi Band at our table, Dorothy in foreground. |
Dorothy kindly drove us to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery where my parents are buried. I appreciated this rare opportunity. After saying several short prayers, I was content and we left. A short distance away was The USAA Towers where my parents lived before their deaths. I wanted to see how it looked after ten years (the same as before).
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| The USAA Towers retirement apartments, San Antonio, Texas |
San Antonio Again! (Texas #3, Fri., June 21, 2013)
On this blistery, hot, 95 degree day, we set out early for San Antonio. We had the bad fortune to crawl for many miles behind a heavily-escorted, immense tank destined for the oil fields. The Cuero-Victoria area in Texas is booming with new oil and natural gas finds, new producing pumps and, apparently, plenty of new millionaires. The trailer holding the tank was wider than two lanes so when a bridge was approached, it had to be measured to assure the tank would pass. At last there was a side road Dorothy could turn on, and we were really going to the Big City!
Of course, we had to see The Alamo. We also wanted to visit the old Spanish Missions and the fabulous RiverWalk. First stop: Mission San Jose y San Miguel de Aguayo (St. Joseph and St. Michael of Aguayo). I had first visited this mission with my mother years ago. It is both a National Park and a Catholic parish. Began in 1720, it is the largest of the San Antonio Missions. Its large dome was the first domed church in the Americas. The Park shows a movie recounting the impressive history of the area and many tribes of Native Americans. It also displays many artifacts and staffs a quality gift shop.
Can you imagine the beauty of this remarkable building when completed? The frescoes and paintings must have been magnificent when new! After my father's death, in 2003, I attended a Mariachi Mass one Sunday here. There were approximately ten Mexican trumpeters and guitarists. The prayers all were in Spanish but the sermon was in English. Hymns were sung in Spanish, with great spirit. Afterwards, I bought a cassette tape of the music.
Next stop: Mission Nuestra Senora de la Purisima Concepcion (Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception), started in 1755. Mother and I thought there were three old missions along the Mission Road. There are actually four on Mission Road. However, the Alamo was also a mission church so there are five missions in San Antonio.
Concepcion Mission is the largest of the mission churches and is the most well-preserved due to the roofs never collapsing as had happened in the other missions after being abandoned. The few remaining wall decorations are beautiful. This is also a functioning Catholic parish. There is a lovely, peaceful grotto with a cactus garden on the grounds.
Dorothy, Peggy, and I wanted very much to visit the remaining two missions on Mission Road, Mission San Juan Capistrano and Mission San Francisco de la Espada but chose to visit The Alamo so we could get in before closing. Peggy had never been to The Alamo and it was Number One on her 'must see' list. Dorothy had seen it many years before and I had been there many times as nearly every time I visited my parents I had taken along one of my daughters and they ALL had to see The Alamo!
We checked in at our hotel, Marriott Riverwalk and dropped our suitcases. The panoramic view of the city from our 26th-story room's balcony was captivating: boats on the RiverWalk below and skyscrapers at eye level.
Oh, The Alamo! Every American must make this a Pilgrimage sometime in his or her life! It embodies the very spirit of our nation: Never Give Up! Freedom is Worth Fighting For! Band Together! Do Our Very Best!! The Alamo building and grounds are much larger than you could imagine. Did you know that in the Battle of the Alamo in 1836, nearly 200 Texans held out for 13 days against impossible odds from General Santa Anna's forces from Mexico? Then all lost their lives. Something new I learned this trip: There were SIX FLAGS over The Alamo and Texas: Spanish (at two different times), French, Mexican, The Republic of Texas, the United States of America and the Confederate States.
The Alamo site is maintained by the Daughters of the American Revolution. They do not permit photos but have a huge gift shop in one of the inner buildings.
By four o'clock in the afternoon, we realized we were so busy we forgot to each lunch. We found a nearby, cool sandwich shop, ate, and headed back to the hotel for a rest. On the way back we passed an old church, St. Joseph's, and stopped in for a short visit, thoroughly edified by the intricate stained-glass windows but especially by the Stations of the Cross with captions in both English and German. This was a church built by German immigrants! (More on the many cultures of Texas later.)
Later, Dorothy and I sat on a lower-level balcony and watched a parade of boats glide by. We felt the need to walk the RiverWalk! Many shops later, we were lured by friendly staff at Dick's Last Chance eatery and stuffed down a fine dinner of fish and chips. We loved the casual, international atmosphere. On the walk home we were treated to another parade: horse-drawn carriages, horse-drawn lighted 'Cinderella coaches', etc. Night in downtown San Antonio is festive, crowded, and safe.
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| One of many Texas oil rigs. |
Of course, we had to see The Alamo. We also wanted to visit the old Spanish Missions and the fabulous RiverWalk. First stop: Mission San Jose y San Miguel de Aguayo (St. Joseph and St. Michael of Aguayo). I had first visited this mission with my mother years ago. It is both a National Park and a Catholic parish. Began in 1720, it is the largest of the San Antonio Missions. Its large dome was the first domed church in the Americas. The Park shows a movie recounting the impressive history of the area and many tribes of Native Americans. It also displays many artifacts and staffs a quality gift shop.
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| Mission San Jose y San Miguel de Aguayo, San Antonio, Texas |
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| Main Altar at Mission San Jose |
Next stop: Mission Nuestra Senora de la Purisima Concepcion (Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception), started in 1755. Mother and I thought there were three old missions along the Mission Road. There are actually four on Mission Road. However, the Alamo was also a mission church so there are five missions in San Antonio.
Concepcion Mission is the largest of the mission churches and is the most well-preserved due to the roofs never collapsing as had happened in the other missions after being abandoned. The few remaining wall decorations are beautiful. This is also a functioning Catholic parish. There is a lovely, peaceful grotto with a cactus garden on the grounds.
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| Mission Nuestra Senora de la Purisima Concepcion, San Antonio, Texas |
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| Frescoes on ceiling with bell tower pull, Mission Concepcion |
We checked in at our hotel, Marriott Riverwalk and dropped our suitcases. The panoramic view of the city from our 26th-story room's balcony was captivating: boats on the RiverWalk below and skyscrapers at eye level.
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| RiverWalk, San Antonio, Texas, as seen from 26 floors above. |
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| Afternoon skyline, San Antonio, Texas, as seen from Marriott Riverwalk |
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| Facade of The Alamo, San Antonio, Texas |
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| Dorothy, left, and Peggy in front of The Alamo |
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| Main Altar, St. Joseph's church, San Antonio |
Later, Dorothy and I sat on a lower-level balcony and watched a parade of boats glide by. We felt the need to walk the RiverWalk! Many shops later, we were lured by friendly staff at Dick's Last Chance eatery and stuffed down a fine dinner of fish and chips. We loved the casual, international atmosphere. On the walk home we were treated to another parade: horse-drawn carriages, horse-drawn lighted 'Cinderella coaches', etc. Night in downtown San Antonio is festive, crowded, and safe.
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| Jan with Statue of St. Anthony, Patron Saint of San Antonio, at the RiverWalk |
Sunday, June 23, 2013
A New Love! (Texas #2: Thurs., June 20, 2013)
Tonight I have a rich love for all things Texan: the Gulf Coast, the large chemical industries, the wildlife which includes deer, seagulls, tiny bright green lizards; the flat, straight roads which stretch into the horizon, the gas and oil rigs, the naturally friendly and quite helpful human inhabitants, the rich history and the varied and excellent cuisine.
Driving to Port Lavaca on the Gulf Coast on two-lane roads was interesting, particularly when a huge tanker truck was intent on passing Dorothy's little red Prius. "Indian Blankets," bright orange wildflowers alongside the roads, and medium-sized prickly cacti beautified the endless landscape of fenced fields. Herds of many different breeds of cattle were on the ranches. Peggy and I searched for the long-horned cows we want to see but Dorothy said that none qualified.
Half Moon Reef Lighthouse in Port Lavaca is three stories tall but seems small in comparison to others I have viewed (please see Blogpost, "All the way UP!", Tues., June 11, 2013). But I enjoyed it just the same. Moved inland from the Gulf of Mexico, now folks can just walk up steps instead of having to boat to reach it. Its hexagonal shape is different from the others, also.
Our next stop was in Port O'Connor, also on the Gulf of Mexico. We strolled out on a long pier. The water is clear and we frequently stopped to check out the sealife below: schools of small fish, graceful in their abrupt turns here and there, plentiful jellyfish, plodding their way who knows where. Dorothy identified one of the larger varieties as 'Man-O-War.' The three of us swapped stories of relatives who have been stung by jellyfish in the ocean - and the extreme pain of this.
FYI: it is remarkable to discover different marine life in the waters on opposite coasts in America. In the deeper, darker waters of Chesapeake Bay, you find thousands of small, white, identical jellyfish. In the bay in Seattle, Washington, there are hundreds of starfish of varying sizes. I love being an explorer!
At the end of the pier were two fishermen, a grandfather and grandson. The elder informed us, "When the tide comes in, the fish really bite."
There were more pelicans here than I've ever seen before near a beach. I find it soothing to watch them soar and dive for their dinner, back and forth. They are dark, large, and easily spotted.
Dorothy's family has maintained a small cottage near the sea in Port O'Connor for generations. Driving around and around the narrow streets, she was thrilled to find the yellow house: "I thought it was blue." Since our tummies were grumbling, we drove around again till we found a local restaurant, "Cathy's." Peggy and I had grilled cheese sandwiches, fried okra and hush puppies, super tasty. Dorothy enjoyed a large hamburger and fries. We SO longed to stay in Port O'Connor for at least a month!
Knowing all the local areas which would interest us, Dorothy took us next to Goliad. First stop: Goliad State Park, site of Our Lady of the Holy Spirit of Zuniga Mission, founded in 1722. It was closing time but a kind young park ranger told us, "Hurry in, put your fee in the box when you're finished."
We marveled at the wonderful state of preservation of the almost 300-year-old mission church. It was cool inside despite the 95-degree heat outside. We were surprised by the deep emotion displayed in the statues and paintings of this Spanish mission.
Not very far down the road from the Mission is Presidio La Bahia, a fortress and grounds of extreme historical importance to both Mexican and American citizens. A large house, outside the fortress, then part of Mexico, was the birthplace of General Ignaxio Zaragoza Seguin in 1829. Zaragoza led revolutionary forces to defeat the Mexican dictator, Santa Anna. This led to a new democratic government and the subsequent celebration of the Cinco de Mayo.
To the rear of the fortress is a monument to the American Colonel James Fannin and the tragic battle in 1836 during which the Mexican dictator Santa Anna defeated the Americans. General Santa Anna slaughtered nearly 400 of Fannin's men, one by one, as Fannin was forced to watch, then murdered Colonel Fannin after this battle for Texan independence from Mexico. The battlecry, "Remember the Alamo, Remember La Bahia!" inflamed Texans to take back their land from the Mexicans.
Dorothy was kind enough to drive us through her family's beautiful ranches near Cuero, Texas, full of herds of cattle, then to the small but elegant town of Cuero, her birthplace. I have never seen such a magnificant, large courthouse of red stone.
Last stop of the day was back in Victoria for a fine dinner overlooking the Guadalupe River at the Pump House Restaurant. The sun was low in the sky as we headed back to Dorothy's house for a short chat, then bedtime. See why I LOVE Texas!
Driving to Port Lavaca on the Gulf Coast on two-lane roads was interesting, particularly when a huge tanker truck was intent on passing Dorothy's little red Prius. "Indian Blankets," bright orange wildflowers alongside the roads, and medium-sized prickly cacti beautified the endless landscape of fenced fields. Herds of many different breeds of cattle were on the ranches. Peggy and I searched for the long-horned cows we want to see but Dorothy said that none qualified.
Half Moon Reef Lighthouse in Port Lavaca is three stories tall but seems small in comparison to others I have viewed (please see Blogpost, "All the way UP!", Tues., June 11, 2013). But I enjoyed it just the same. Moved inland from the Gulf of Mexico, now folks can just walk up steps instead of having to boat to reach it. Its hexagonal shape is different from the others, also.
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| Half Moon Reef Lighthouse in Port Lavaca, Texas |
Our next stop was in Port O'Connor, also on the Gulf of Mexico. We strolled out on a long pier. The water is clear and we frequently stopped to check out the sealife below: schools of small fish, graceful in their abrupt turns here and there, plentiful jellyfish, plodding their way who knows where. Dorothy identified one of the larger varieties as 'Man-O-War.' The three of us swapped stories of relatives who have been stung by jellyfish in the ocean - and the extreme pain of this.
FYI: it is remarkable to discover different marine life in the waters on opposite coasts in America. In the deeper, darker waters of Chesapeake Bay, you find thousands of small, white, identical jellyfish. In the bay in Seattle, Washington, there are hundreds of starfish of varying sizes. I love being an explorer!
At the end of the pier were two fishermen, a grandfather and grandson. The elder informed us, "When the tide comes in, the fish really bite."
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| Pier, Port O'Connor, Texas |
There were more pelicans here than I've ever seen before near a beach. I find it soothing to watch them soar and dive for their dinner, back and forth. They are dark, large, and easily spotted.
Dorothy's family has maintained a small cottage near the sea in Port O'Connor for generations. Driving around and around the narrow streets, she was thrilled to find the yellow house: "I thought it was blue." Since our tummies were grumbling, we drove around again till we found a local restaurant, "Cathy's." Peggy and I had grilled cheese sandwiches, fried okra and hush puppies, super tasty. Dorothy enjoyed a large hamburger and fries. We SO longed to stay in Port O'Connor for at least a month!
Knowing all the local areas which would interest us, Dorothy took us next to Goliad. First stop: Goliad State Park, site of Our Lady of the Holy Spirit of Zuniga Mission, founded in 1722. It was closing time but a kind young park ranger told us, "Hurry in, put your fee in the box when you're finished."
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| Main Altar at Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Mission, Goliad, Texas |
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| Painting depicting Veronica after wiping Jesus' face during his walk to Calvary, Our Lady of the Holy Spirit Mission Church in Goliad State Park, Goliad, Texas |
To the rear of the fortress is a monument to the American Colonel James Fannin and the tragic battle in 1836 during which the Mexican dictator Santa Anna defeated the Americans. General Santa Anna slaughtered nearly 400 of Fannin's men, one by one, as Fannin was forced to watch, then murdered Colonel Fannin after this battle for Texan independence from Mexico. The battlecry, "Remember the Alamo, Remember La Bahia!" inflamed Texans to take back their land from the Mexicans.
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| La Bahia fortress, part of Goliad State Park, Goliad, Texas |
Dorothy was kind enough to drive us through her family's beautiful ranches near Cuero, Texas, full of herds of cattle, then to the small but elegant town of Cuero, her birthplace. I have never seen such a magnificant, large courthouse of red stone.
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| DeWitt County Courthouse, Cuero, Texas |
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| Dorothy at the Pump House waiting for our fabulous fish dinner |
Old Friends, A Warm Reunion (Texas #1, Wed., June 19, 2013)
Our trip today from Lake Charles, Louisiana, to Victoria, Texas, was filled with a new appreciation for Texas. From the abundant waters of Louisiana, we entered the dry State called Texas. My previous experience here consisted of multiple airplane trips to visit my parents in San Antonio, where they lived after their retirement in the USAA Towers until their deaths in 2002 and 2003. I was so despondent following my father's death that, on the plane home to Lexington, I vowed to myself never to return.
Time healed sufficiently and in 2011 I attended the American Nephrology Nurses' Association convention in San Antonio. My colleague, Jill, and I played hooky one afternoon and visited my parents' gravesite in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Their policy is that the husband and wife are buried one coffin on top of the other in one grave with one gravestone. 'Adeline's' name with birth/death dates are on one side of the marker with 'Reuben's' information on the other side. Although I shed some tears, this greatly helped me. Today, I remember this.
There is one word for the state of Texas: MEGA! Peggy and I were amazed at the ginormous size of the seemingly endless cornfields. We calculated that you could fit all the cornfields in Kentucky into one Texas cornfield! And the size of the silos: easily, ten or more Kentucky-size silos could fit into one Texas silo. Here there are four to six silos standing together. This year the corn is approximately one-half the size of the corn in the few fields we passed in Florida. Texas desperately needs rain!
What do we expect from Texas? We want to see a cowboy, some long-horned cows, lots of Spanish architecture, and eat authentic Mexican food. Our first wish was granted shortly after we passed the state line: there appeared a billboard advertising cowboy boots. Our first destination in Texas is Victoria, home of Peggy's and my friend, Dorothy.
Mother cross-stitched a needlework sampler many years ago: "Old Friends, New Friends, One is Silver, the Other Gold. Keep the Silver, Keep the Gold." Our friend, Dorothy, qualifies as a golden friend. We were thrilled to see each other one year after she moved from Kentucky. After hugs, ice-cold drinks, and a long, breezy walk around Dorothy's lovely neighborhood, the three of us chatted until late into the night.
Time healed sufficiently and in 2011 I attended the American Nephrology Nurses' Association convention in San Antonio. My colleague, Jill, and I played hooky one afternoon and visited my parents' gravesite in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Their policy is that the husband and wife are buried one coffin on top of the other in one grave with one gravestone. 'Adeline's' name with birth/death dates are on one side of the marker with 'Reuben's' information on the other side. Although I shed some tears, this greatly helped me. Today, I remember this.
There is one word for the state of Texas: MEGA! Peggy and I were amazed at the ginormous size of the seemingly endless cornfields. We calculated that you could fit all the cornfields in Kentucky into one Texas cornfield! And the size of the silos: easily, ten or more Kentucky-size silos could fit into one Texas silo. Here there are four to six silos standing together. This year the corn is approximately one-half the size of the corn in the few fields we passed in Florida. Texas desperately needs rain!
What do we expect from Texas? We want to see a cowboy, some long-horned cows, lots of Spanish architecture, and eat authentic Mexican food. Our first wish was granted shortly after we passed the state line: there appeared a billboard advertising cowboy boots. Our first destination in Texas is Victoria, home of Peggy's and my friend, Dorothy.
Mother cross-stitched a needlework sampler many years ago: "Old Friends, New Friends, One is Silver, the Other Gold. Keep the Silver, Keep the Gold." Our friend, Dorothy, qualifies as a golden friend. We were thrilled to see each other one year after she moved from Kentucky. After hugs, ice-cold drinks, and a long, breezy walk around Dorothy's lovely neighborhood, the three of us chatted until late into the night.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Eating Some Words & Beignets Today
Okay, I spoke too soon yesterday. Peggy and I motored around New Orleans' Garden District and French Quarter today and saw a different picture than that of late yesterday afternoon: very few bums on the street! We did this early, after checking out from the hotel, 9 a.m. First, I thought you'd enjoy our photo of the SuperDome all lit up last night. It looks like a big spaceship!
The Garden District is an area of grand and grander homes, painted in white and pastel colors, most having ornate black iron fences of varying heights and, appropriately, fabulous gardens. The Trolley runs through the center of the main street. Oh, that we had time to ride all around the city! Many homes are Victorian, many have the traditional balconies that hallmark New Orleans. The ancient trees sometimes form canopies over the streets. This was thoroughly enjoyable.
Next, we checked out parking close to the St. Louis Cathedral and found a city lot between the church, the trolley tracks and a walkway next to the Mississippi River. We sat on a park bench noticing ships moored, ships passing by quickly and ships on the horizon. Nearby was a lone trumpeter.
There is a spacious city park in front of the Cathedral where one can meander among rose bushes and palm trees and view the magnificent church building.
In this holy building, dedicated to Saint Louis/King Louis IX (13th Century) of France, one can be transported with heavenly visions of Jesus, his mother Mary, many saints and angels through the ornate stained glass windows, statues and paintings on the walls and ceilings. It is our Catholic custom to bow in front of the main altar in honor of God whom we worship in Mass, at other services, and even privately. I found myself bowing many times as I crossed in front of the altar to explore the side altars, main altar, paintings everywhere, statues and finally, the grand organ in the rear choir loft.
This Catholic parish was founded in the year 1718 - almost 3 centuries old! The inscriptions underneath The Stations of the Cross on the Walls are in French. What a fabulous history!
Coming into the increasing heat and humidity of the day, Peggy and I decided to visit several neighboring shops and stop at Du Cafe Du Monde (The Cafe of the World), across the street, for iced coffee and beignets, french doughnuts heaped with powdered sugar. This was a large, outdoor cafe brimmed full of tourists of many nationalities, seranaded by a guitarist on the sidewalk. After lingering at several more shops (Peggy finally found some Mardi Gras beads for her sister, Barbara), Peggy and I made a slow trek back to our hot-as-a-stove car.
We drove through Bourbon Street once more to reach Canal Street where we hoped to find directions to I-10. At this time, noon, Bourbon Street was virtually abandoned with most shops closed and windows shuttered up. It still was what I'd refer to as a 'seedy' area. There were a few lone tourists and not many others evident except for numerous delivery trucks and one lone police car stopped in the middle of a street. Bourbon Street and all of the nearby streets are one-way and extremely narrow. One drives very slowly, especially at the intersections.
Alas, it was time to go and drive at least 200 miles West on I-10 as we had planned. Louisiana has lakes, rivers, bays and swamps everywhere. Quite notable was Lake Bigeau, widely flooded.
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| SuperDome is in the center, lit up pink. |
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| One of our favorite old homes from the Garden District. |
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| Bridge over the Mighty, Muddy Mississippi |
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| The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, King of France, New Orleans |
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| The Main Altar with Jesus, center, Statue of St. Peter, right, and St. Paul, left. Inscription above the altar states, in Latin: "This is the Bread of Angels." |
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| Statue on right side of rear entrance honoring St. Louis |
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| Statue on left side of rear entrance honoring St. Joan of Arc, a French Saint |
Coming into the increasing heat and humidity of the day, Peggy and I decided to visit several neighboring shops and stop at Du Cafe Du Monde (The Cafe of the World), across the street, for iced coffee and beignets, french doughnuts heaped with powdered sugar. This was a large, outdoor cafe brimmed full of tourists of many nationalities, seranaded by a guitarist on the sidewalk. After lingering at several more shops (Peggy finally found some Mardi Gras beads for her sister, Barbara), Peggy and I made a slow trek back to our hot-as-a-stove car.
We drove through Bourbon Street once more to reach Canal Street where we hoped to find directions to I-10. At this time, noon, Bourbon Street was virtually abandoned with most shops closed and windows shuttered up. It still was what I'd refer to as a 'seedy' area. There were a few lone tourists and not many others evident except for numerous delivery trucks and one lone police car stopped in the middle of a street. Bourbon Street and all of the nearby streets are one-way and extremely narrow. One drives very slowly, especially at the intersections.
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| Balconies abound on Bourbon Street |
Alas, it was time to go and drive at least 200 miles West on I-10 as we had planned. Louisiana has lakes, rivers, bays and swamps everywhere. Quite notable was Lake Bigeau, widely flooded.
Tonight we staying in Lake Charles, LA. Tomorrow we enter the Great State of TEXAS!!
Monday, June 17, 2013
West from Tallahassee to New Orleans!
Interstate-10 passes through pleasant, semi-rolling countryside. We lost our beloved wild Palm Trees soon after leaving Pensacola, FL, after which they were evident only at the highway interchanges and shopping centers, planted in neat rows. Pine/evergreen forests were so dense we wondered that any human has ever set foot in them.
There are no 'Deer' warning signs on the Florida highways like we see all over Kentucky and in the mountains. We mused that once upon a time, the alligators ate all the deer! (Note: The front end of my car was wiped out by a deer at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, January 6, 2013 in the city of Lexington, KY on my way to work. Cost of repairs: $6,400. Should we import alligators to Kentucky?)
We have great praise for the Florida highways: all we drove on are in excellent state of repair with few short delays for minor construction. Tall concrete walls between the highways and housing areas have decorative touches such as imprinted flying ducks, palm trees and coral. Many of the bridge supports in Pensacola have five jets in the airshow pattern of the flying Blue Angels. There is a large military and NASA presence in this part of our U.S.A.
Wherever I travel, I always enjoy the unusual American city/town names: from Florida were Casa Cola, Palm Bay, Hammock, Long, Fellowship, Chipley, Niceville and Gulf Breeze. Spanish names are frequent but as you approach Louisiana, French names take over.
It is 347 miles from Tallahassee to the Louisiana Welcome Center. Florida through Alabama through Mississippi to Louisiana - such a quick trip, it seems. In Louisiana, I-10 proceeds over swamps polka-dotted with white water-lilies. Finally, we drive on a bridge over the tremendously large Lake Pontchartrain and into New Orleans.
The rain paused just long enough for these photos.
Since Peggy had never been to New Orleans and I'd never seen the St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, we decided to travel south on 'Business I-10' to the old part of the city. We had visions of taking a Trolley Tour, strolling through the French Quarter and walking to the Cathedral, shopping, eating local cuisine, etc. We enjoyed the trip to our hotel on Baronne Street. The hotel itself is clean, efficient, convenient and friendly. Most appreciated were valet parking and room service for dinner. From our sixth-floor room, we can see the SuperDome.
There, our love affair with New Orleans ends. I personally hate to be negative, but I must. The only other time I visited the city was at a Psychiatric Nursing Convention in 1995. Even in a large group of middle-aged nurses, we were threatened by insults and taunts from scruffy people sitting in groups on the streets in front of the fancy hotels, Bourbon Street, and in the above-ground cemetery - in the daytime hours! We were solicited many times. One nurse and her husband were walking in a city park; the husband got mugged - in broad daylight. I promised myself never to return. Never have I felt unsafe in other large cities' historic districts - Rome, London, Cincinnati, San Francisco, Boston, Seattle, Vilnius, Dublin, etc. Driving through the city to the hotel I see that nothing has changed: groups of unkempt people congregate everywhere in the historic district. I mistakenly thought that since Hurricane Katrina destroyed much of the city, other areas might be cleaned up.
Our plan for tomorrow now will be to check out, retrive the car and just drive around the French Quarter, the Garden District and hope the Cathedral has parking that looks safe. Then we'll head west to Texas!
Peggy and I are so disappointed in this change-of-plans. However, we are practical: two old ladies by themselves would be fair game for the hordes of apparently idle locals. What is the difference between New Orleans and other giant cities, safe cities: Police Presence! In Rome and London, there are several officers on every corner. Here, I didn't see a single officer or patrol car. I should think that the money spent on this by the City of New Orleans would more than be paid back by the large influx of tourists, both American and foreign.
(P.S.: please discount my joke about the alligators and the deer. I know our deer are here to stay in Kentucky and in the mountains. They seem to be very abundant this year!)
There are no 'Deer' warning signs on the Florida highways like we see all over Kentucky and in the mountains. We mused that once upon a time, the alligators ate all the deer! (Note: The front end of my car was wiped out by a deer at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, January 6, 2013 in the city of Lexington, KY on my way to work. Cost of repairs: $6,400. Should we import alligators to Kentucky?)
We have great praise for the Florida highways: all we drove on are in excellent state of repair with few short delays for minor construction. Tall concrete walls between the highways and housing areas have decorative touches such as imprinted flying ducks, palm trees and coral. Many of the bridge supports in Pensacola have five jets in the airshow pattern of the flying Blue Angels. There is a large military and NASA presence in this part of our U.S.A.
Wherever I travel, I always enjoy the unusual American city/town names: from Florida were Casa Cola, Palm Bay, Hammock, Long, Fellowship, Chipley, Niceville and Gulf Breeze. Spanish names are frequent but as you approach Louisiana, French names take over.
It is 347 miles from Tallahassee to the Louisiana Welcome Center. Florida through Alabama through Mississippi to Louisiana - such a quick trip, it seems. In Louisiana, I-10 proceeds over swamps polka-dotted with white water-lilies. Finally, we drive on a bridge over the tremendously large Lake Pontchartrain and into New Orleans.
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| Peggy |
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| Jan |
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| Our first sight of the fabulous New Orleans Skyline. |
Since Peggy had never been to New Orleans and I'd never seen the St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, we decided to travel south on 'Business I-10' to the old part of the city. We had visions of taking a Trolley Tour, strolling through the French Quarter and walking to the Cathedral, shopping, eating local cuisine, etc. We enjoyed the trip to our hotel on Baronne Street. The hotel itself is clean, efficient, convenient and friendly. Most appreciated were valet parking and room service for dinner. From our sixth-floor room, we can see the SuperDome.
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| SuperDome is visible between the skyscrapers. |
Our plan for tomorrow now will be to check out, retrive the car and just drive around the French Quarter, the Garden District and hope the Cathedral has parking that looks safe. Then we'll head west to Texas!
Peggy and I are so disappointed in this change-of-plans. However, we are practical: two old ladies by themselves would be fair game for the hordes of apparently idle locals. What is the difference between New Orleans and other giant cities, safe cities: Police Presence! In Rome and London, there are several officers on every corner. Here, I didn't see a single officer or patrol car. I should think that the money spent on this by the City of New Orleans would more than be paid back by the large influx of tourists, both American and foreign.
(P.S.: please discount my joke about the alligators and the deer. I know our deer are here to stay in Kentucky and in the mountains. They seem to be very abundant this year!)
Sunday, June 16, 2013
An Easy Travel Day
Bet you wanted to know: from Port St. Lucie, FL to Tallahassee, Fl is 384 miles on the Florida Turnpike and I-75 North with straight, very straight roads. There is hardly evidence of civilization until you nearly reach Ocala. Fortunately for us, though, we are enchanted with Palm Trees and Spanish Moss and never tire of their graceful swaying in the wind. Occasionally there was a field of cows and once there was a cornfield which reminded us of our Kentucky farmlands. Guess what: we are NOT homesick!
Tomorrow we'll venture to New Orleans! It was before Katrina that I was last there so I'm interested in how the French Quarter looks now. Our hotel is booked and we plan to turn in early so we can rise early. Nighty, night!
Tomorrow we'll venture to New Orleans! It was before Katrina that I was last there so I'm interested in how the French Quarter looks now. Our hotel is booked and we plan to turn in early so we can rise early. Nighty, night!
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Good-byes Again
Today was clean-up day and shopping day. Port St. Lucie is a booming, busy, dynamic, 'new' town. Shopping is great everywhere. And we gals LOVE to shop!
Here I found what I'd been looking for since we first came to Florida last week: a wooden 'sea' bird, on a stick, to join my ever-growing collection of sea birds. Beale's had a good selection. Then we looked through lots of clothes; Peggy selected a new outfit. Two different times we went to Walmart for necessities. Our shopping was finished after a long session at Barnes-and-Noble. I found several books to put in my queue.
Peggy and I returned to the hotel in time to get ready for church. Don had driven us past their church on the way back yesterday. Conveniently, St. Bernadette's was just behind the Walmart store.
Due to one of the many Jewish influences on our Catholic religion, namely, that Sabbath went from evening one day to evening the next day, we are permitted to attend late Saturday Mass and have it 'count' for Sunday, the Lord's Day. We want to rise and shine early tomorrow for our long trek from Port St. Lucie to Texas.
The pastor greeted everyone warmly before Mass. The music was outstanding, the work of a fine singer/organist who included one short Gregorian chant, an extremely difficult but beautiful Medieval musical piece. The people welcomed us on every side and were very proud of their new two-year-old church building. The pastor was an excellent homilist. He offered a special prayer for all fathers and grandfathers, for both the 'natural' ones and the 'ones by choice,' since Father's Day is tomorrow. Don reported that the congregation is large but grows considerably during January through March when the 'snowbirds' (folks from up north who winter in Florida) fly south.
FYI: Catholics believe in "The Communion of Saints," namely that all Christians are united, the Saints in Heaven and the Christians here on earth. We honor many Saints. Note: we do not worship statues nor do we worship Jesus' Mother, Mary, nor do we worship the Saints. However, since Mary and the Saints are close to God, we may ask them, in our hearts, to help us in special endeavors. Google 'Bernadette Soubirous', a real person, for more info.
My dear sister-in-law, Kathleen, my dear brother, Don, Peggy and I lingered over a fun dinner at the Outback. We always talk non-stop, even at the end of our visits. Since I am the oldest sibling in our family, I sometimes remember some fact that Don, the 'baby', never knew. This time I remembered that our Mother Adeline once mentioned that Don was born in the U.S. Navy Hospital on the Navy Base at Norfolk, Virginia, USA, in July of 1951. At that time, Mom recounted, "There were so many babies that the nurses had long carts with three layers; on both sides there were cubbyholes for the babies. The nurses went down the halls and gave the babies to their mothers at nursing time." Kathleen told us that their oldest son, Justin, was born in the same hospital but there were no carts with cubbies!
Don and Kathleen returned Peggy and I to our hotel and there were hugs all around. I was thrilled that Don and Kathleen were in America now instead of far away in Ireland where they lived for many years!
Here I found what I'd been looking for since we first came to Florida last week: a wooden 'sea' bird, on a stick, to join my ever-growing collection of sea birds. Beale's had a good selection. Then we looked through lots of clothes; Peggy selected a new outfit. Two different times we went to Walmart for necessities. Our shopping was finished after a long session at Barnes-and-Noble. I found several books to put in my queue.
Peggy and I returned to the hotel in time to get ready for church. Don had driven us past their church on the way back yesterday. Conveniently, St. Bernadette's was just behind the Walmart store.
Due to one of the many Jewish influences on our Catholic religion, namely, that Sabbath went from evening one day to evening the next day, we are permitted to attend late Saturday Mass and have it 'count' for Sunday, the Lord's Day. We want to rise and shine early tomorrow for our long trek from Port St. Lucie to Texas.
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| St. Bernadette's Catholic Church, Port St. Lucie, Florida |
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| Statue honoring St. Bernadette |
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| Grotto depicting the Blessed Virgin Mary appearing to St. Bernadette |
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| Statues of other Saints honored at the church: From left: St. Patrick, St. Jude, St. Anthony & St. Padre Pio |
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| The Bell Tower at St. Bernadette's Church |
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| Family: From left: Kathleen, Jan and Don |
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| Fine Friend, Peggy |
Don and Kathleen returned Peggy and I to our hotel and there were hugs all around. I was thrilled that Don and Kathleen were in America now instead of far away in Ireland where they lived for many years!
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