#TexasToTahoe
With the car loaded up, we headed down the long... long Texas highway. Biding us a fond farewell was the iconic Sam Houston! Located in Huntsville is the 67 foot statue called “A Tribute To Courage” honoring one of the Founding Fathers of Texas. Towering over the I-45, it is the second tallest freestanding sculpture in the United States.
For the first time, we are taking a more northern route to Tahoe. Though we thought it would be a bit cooler up north, our research shows us that will not be the case. We are expecting record breaking heat every day of the trip! Oh boy... This was our view for many miles as we crossed Texas. Some find it boring. I find it amazing! Vast empty space... farm land... sometimes flat, sometimes gentle hills. It's nice to be away from the crowded cities, no people. And... I like green.
Traveling with dogs is challenging. Traveling with Border Collies is insane! Our plan is to travel only about five hours a day because in “dog time” it is the equivalent to eight hours. Initially, these two take a little bit to settle down. Sapphire has a much easier time than Onyx. One cozies up on the floor, one stands to watch the world go by...
One of drives, and the “co-pilot” looks for gas stations and more importantly... dog parks. Actually, we don't like to go to designated dog parks because Onyx is a bit scared of other animals. Our challenge is to locate the biggest grassy, open area to play Frisbee and burn off a little Border Collie energy... as if that's even possible! We had success in Wichita Falls, Texas. Located right beside a river, this grassy area was on the outskirts of a sports complex. The dogs acted like they had been locked up for YEARS! This location was a huge success!
In looking at our car, it seems we brought everything but the kitchen sink! One reusable grocery bag is filled with dog toys, dog food and snacks. Another holds supplies like plates, cups, utensils and everything needed to make French Press coffee! We also have snack food... healthy snack food. I made my own “trail mix” with the things I like best. We brought apple slices, string cheese, olives and so much more!
Texas has miles of wind turbines. This wind powered renewable resource lines the flat farmland in the middle of the state. I actually LOVE these large white tri-blade turbines. They appear to dance. There's something elegant about the way they move in the wind. Almost playful. Obviously, I have too much time to think in this unincorporated area!
This little scene caught my eye. Train cars full of coal ran along side the freeway. For miles we see wind turbines, then suddenly coal being transported. So much goes on behind the scenes for us to enjoy a comfortable life at home.
So… as of this point, we have traveled 601 miles. Still in the state of Texas. Starting out in Kingwood, traveled to Wichita Falls and then on to Amarillo for the night. We stayed at “My Place” just off I-40. What a great spot. Large room with complete kitchenette. A great field for the dogs to play, just outside the property. Longhorn Steakhouse right across the street. And six short minutes away… Cadillac Ranch! I visited this location years ago and the Cadillacs were red… and just a quick siting as we sailed down the freeway. Now it is a “stop”… a fun activity. So many visitors I didn’t bother walking up to it. Apparently, you can bring your own spray paint or buy it from the gift shop… and graffiti the Cadillacs standing with their nose in the ground. And so… the end of phase one!
