About That More Rainy Weather (February 12 - 18)

Dear Family and Friends,

I know that I have no right to complain, but this overcast weather has to go! Texas does need water and every drop is precious, so I will concentrate on the positive and stop whining.

Notice the Madagascar Palm located behind the cactus. This palm  is well over 8 feet and was my favorite plant in Tucson. Because of the temperate weather in the valley, these palms grow very large.

In between rain showers Roger and I were able to get out and get some longer bike rides in. We met a new friend from Tennessee, John, and he made a great addition to our very small pelaton. Between Roger and John, I was challenged.

John, Suzanne and Roger sneaking in a bike ride during a break in the weather.

Below are pictures from our rides including a shot of the mission ruins and a typical grapefruit grove.  Yes, those are the ruby reds from Texas.

On Tuesday we decided to drive to South Padre Island while we had another break in the weather. SPI is located 80 miles from Mission and is a beach person's paradise. The weather held and the three of us enjoyed a great day. To get to Padre Island you must drive through Port Isabel and then go over the Queen Isabella Causeway which is quite a spectacular bridge.

Queen Isabella Memorial Causeway

Looking at South Padre Island from the bridge.

Huge Pelicans

The Gulf of Mexico

Bear is not too sure about getting his paws wet.

Port Isabella Lighthouse

Thursday and Friday found us with more wet weather so we decided to do two museums. One was the museum in Mission where we learned many things about favorite son, Tom Landry. This Dallas Cowboy coach for 29 years was a star quarterback in high school and he played for the University of Texas. He also played and coached for the New York Giants. A true patriot, he flew bombing missions during World War II. Growing up in Ft. Worth, I certainly knew who Tom Landry was.

The Museum of South Texas History is located in Edinburgh, Texas. It was here that we learned about the history of the valley, especially the citrus growing. As mentioned before, this area is the home of the Texas Ruby Red grapefruit. In addition lemons, limes, tomatoes and other crops are grown.

Friday night was entertainment at the resort with Gordy and Debbie. They are a singing act out of Branson, Missouri. There is quite a business for entertaining the Winter Texans in the valley. There have been three groups since we have been at this resort.

Thank you for reading our blog. We are hoping for much better weather next week with lots of time for cycling. We are in the valley until the end of the month and then we are off to Big Bend.