San Antonio, Home of the River Walk

I am departing from my usual posts this coming week, to use my blog for what it was originally intended...a travel log of our family adventures. Please join us in our journey through San Antonio and beyond, as we discover the history and uniqueness of this charming "corner" of Texas!

We had a lovely breakfast on the terrace alongside the river walk yesterday morning. Olivia and I were presented with a beautiful fruit platter and Mario, with Huevos Rancheros (think of your favorite Mexican meal, and add fried or scrambled eggs). Dan had a San Antonio traditional breakfast, with a chorizo omelet, beans with cheeses, salsas, and tortillas...tempting! But, Olivia and I, due to our restrictions, had eggs and potatoes. No matter...the view down the San Antonio river was marvelous.

As we were eating, pigeons, sparrows and mallard ducks came by to beg a few morsels from our plates. They were fairly persistent, and, when we offered nothing, they attempted to steal from each other. One black bird, a Urraca (similar to a Magpie), took a liking to the pink Sweet and Low packets, grabbing them from the tables!

In the afternoon, we toured our favorite online company, Vision Forum, called so because of their multigenerational vision for the family seen through historic events. We met the staff who produce many of the audio, visual and written materials in their store...they are humble, hard working men. When we noticed the stack of over 75 books that the acquisitions manager was considering for their line of products, Olivia and I both agreed that we'd love that job! Check out their online store here: http://www.visionforum.com/start.aspx

Then, it was on to Castroville, settled by request of the Texas government in the 1800's by Alsatian immigrants (French/German). There are over 50 small, stucco homes still standing from that era, typical of the Alsace region of France. Fascinating!

Soon it was time for dinner, so we headed to "The County Line BBQ" which was recommended by a friend, then enjoyed a swim in the hotel pool. We fell into bed exhausted...

This morning, we toured the artisan village of La Villita, San Antonio's first neighborhood of adobe huts, situated near the Alamo. It was originally a military outpost for Spanish soldiers, then settled by European immigrants after the 1819 flood. Now artsy shops occupy many of the historic buildings.

In the afternoon, we headed towards Brackenridge Park, which contains the San Antonio Zoo, golf course, playground, Sunken Garden Theatre and the Japanese Tea Gardens. We chose the latter, and enjoyed walking the stone trail even though it was in the mid 90's and humid. Actually, we've been surprised at how tolerable it is!

We attempted to visit the Fort Sam Houston museum, located on the military base, but, alas, it was closed for the Memorial Day weekend. All the soldiers were in town with their families to celebrate the holidays, so, we won't see this medical military museum until Tuesday. As they stroll by on the river walk, I thank God for their willingness to serve our country. A few I have verbally thanked in passing.

Back to the River Walk for dinner and fresh guacamole made tableside, then a rest and swim before retiring...Buenas Noches!