Heading Home

We've been home for almost two weeks now, so it's time to wrap up this winter's travels. 

It's spring in Texas, and we have enjoyed the roadside display of wildflowers all the way through the state. 

Our first stop was in Waco. site of the Branch Davidian debacle and birthplace of my favorite soft drink--Dr. Pepper, where we visited the so-named museum.

Waco is also home to the Magnolia retail empire of fixer-uppers Chip and Joanna Gaines. We visited their downtown silos site, complete with home-goods retail, a bakery, demonstration gardens and related store, play space, food trucks, and thousands of Magnolia t-shirts for sale.  It has become a major tourist destination. Word is there are lines around the block on weekends to get in.  The spot has spurred a lot of downtown development which has given a leg up to other local small businesses. So, whether or not you like their products, they seem to have boosted the local economy.

Best feature of our camp spot was the resident goat population we discovered on the way out. 

​Our next overnight was in Hot Springs, AK.  It has alot to offer: beautiful natural surroundings, outdoor activities, history related to the natural springs, notable architecture, a good selection of restaurants and shops, walkable main street.

We had dinner at the Ohio Club, naturally--good food and an interesting history that includes gambling, gangsters, baseball, and music. 

We stayed at a bautiful campground called Catherine's Landing. It also has a small lodge for non-campers. There was an impressive assortment of nifty camping trailers when we were there. Travel tip: this would be a great place for a family vacation. I give it five stars, for sure.