Driving into Texas, I was granted one of the greatest welcomes you could ask for, WILDFLOWERS! The ditches of almost every roadway are filled with goregeous Blue Bonnets and other beautiful flowers, thanks to Ladybird Johnson. I'm not sure how many times I mentioned these wildflowers as I chatted with family and friends on my drive in, but I'm sure it was a lot (sorry guys). As I made my way to Wimberly, a town just outside of Austin, where I would make my stay, I began to realize that everything truly is bigger in Texas. The speed limits are quite large, in areas where you would assume them to be much lower, and man, is this state big! It took me a long time just to get to Austin, which is just east of the center of the state. 

My stay in Texas was defined by my obsession with water. I spent every spare moment trying to find a new swimming hole to make a splash in. Texas has no shortage of swimming areas, and I quickly came to notice how the rivers play an important role in this state. Many of the cities are centered around rivers and put a large emphasis on them. I thoroughly enjoyed being in the presence of these beautiful, clear blue water sources, and I understand completely why they hold so much importance. Not only are there many rivers in this region, but also lots of springs, which offer an oasis in an otherwise desert-like area. These little oases were made even better by the addition of cypress trees surrounding them. Overall, I was able to spend a lot of time in nature, and there was no shortage of beauty in this area. I am excited to return to Texas to see more of what this huge state has to offer, as I feel I have only scratched the surface.

The people that I met in Texas are some of the best. I lived and worked at a homestead, which had a focus on horse training. The people I met here will forever hold a place in my heart. In addition to those people with whom I spent a lot of time, I also met many friendly strangers through my daily interactions. Whether at the grocery store or out on a hike, I was always sure to see a friendly smiling face and, more often than not, have a quick conversation.

While I wasn't able to cover as much ground as I had initially hoped in this great state, I believe I gained a very thorough understanding of the area I was in, from the nightlife to the nature. I am excited to make a return trip to Texas, which I'm sure will happen sooner than I had once anticipated.