We’ve been in Texas for two months plus a little more. During that time, I’ve run across a few things that have become favorites that I’ll miss when we go back to Home Base (this is Home 2). I thought I’d share a few of them.
One. I love the iced tea shops around here. Whole stores are devoted to serving flavored teas and bottled water. My favorite used to be Water Still, but I tried a new place called H Tea O which has the BEST chai tea ever. Since it’s sweetened to the southern sweet-tea standards, I mix it with unsweet tea for my “northern” tastes and my doctor’s recommendation to cut down on sugar. I could drink it all day. They also have a spot to warm your tea so you can have it your way year-round. I haven’t tried the hot version, but I’m sure it’s wonderful too.
Two. Texans love to eat and there’s no shortage of restaurants to choose from, including fast food ones. If Hubby would let me, I’d eat out all the time, but I’d probably weight 300 pounds by the time we go back to Home Base. Whataburger is great and a favorite. The lasagna at Fazzoli’s Italian fast-food place is delicious. But the barbeque and Mexican food are fabulous too. BBQ brisket at Dyers is great and you can get really good Mexican food at several places, so we rotate between them.
Three. The best donut shop is in Baird. Their donuts are fabulous, but I also love their breakfast sandwiches. My favorite, a croissant with bacon, cheese, and egg. It also comes with both bacon and sausage but while super good, it’s a little too filling for me. I don’t have room for a chocolate glazed donut for dessert. Highly recommended.
Four. So much history happened in this area. Forts, wagon trails, Native American sites, and ranches are all over the place, each with its unique history. Traveling east, we come across historical sites of the Texas fight for freedom against Mexico. Hubby and I have had fun traveling around and reading historical signs. Most of it are things we’ve never heard of, and it’s been a great learning experience. I never tire of learning about history.
Five. Hubby and I have had fun exploring new places, but no matter where we go, the people are very friendly once we get there. A general congeniality is part of the Southern culture. You can strike up a conversation with strangers, and they’ll reach out to you. We’ve had some good laughs with strangers while standing in line to check out. Most of all, I’m addressed with “yes, ma’am” and “no ma’am” which I find refreshing. I’m finally old enough to appreciate being addressed in such a respectful way.