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Remembering The Day John F. Kennedy Was Assassinated, Day 124

November 22, 1963 – the day John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. A day which many remember as if it was yesterday.

Although neither of us were born when this tragic event occurred, there was no question that we would make a visit to the area while we were in Dallas.

Between the American history lessons and the many documentaries about JFK’s death, we both wanted to see the landmarks for ourselves.

So today, on a gray and rainy day, we headed to downtown Dallas to take a closer look at where it all happened.

The JFK Assassination Tour

You can freely walk around the downtown streets of Dallas and see many of the sights and historical markers about the assassination of John F. Kennedy for free.

Dealey Plaza
Dealey Plaza has now been designated as a National Historic Landmark. This is where mourner placed flowers and other memorabilia when JFK was assassinated.

However, we decided to take a one hour, guided, walking tour to learn more information about what exactly happened on that November day.

And in fact, we learned many things that we didn’t know, or at least didn’t remember.

For instance, we learned a lot about both the troubled childhood and military life of Lee Harvey Oswald.

Lee Harvey Oswald

Oswald’s father passed away 2 months before he was born. This left his mother to raise him alone. Unfortunately their relationship was strained from an early age.

Therefore, Oswald was constantly searching for a way out of his childhood home. And at the age of 17 he joined the Marines.

old red museum
The Old Red Museum was once the Old Red Courthouse in Dallas.

Although, this transition was also with many obstacles. On two occasions, Oswald was fined for unlawfully discharging a firearm.

However, by the end of his military term, Oswald earned the honor of becoming a sharp shooter.

But instead of staying in the military, Lee Harvey Oswald became obsessed with communism.

So much in fact, that he moved to the Soviet Union. And this is where he met his wife, Marina.

However, after a little over two years, life in Russia wasn’t everything that he expected. So he decided to move back to Dallas to be near his mother and brother.

Life continued to spin downward for Oswald. He continued with his extreme Marxist views and had difficulty holding down a job.

6th floor book depository
Look up to the 6th floor window and you will see where Lee Harvey Oswald was positioned to kill John F. Kennedy.

Two weeks before John F. Kennedy was expected to tour Dallas in hopes to gain support for the 1964 election, Oswald was given a job at the Texas School Book Depository.

The Famous Book Depository

The day that the Presidential motorcade was scheduled to drive down the streets of Dallas, Oswald positioned himself on the 6th floor of the brick building.

Everyone in the surrounding area was preoccupied with the excitement of watching John F. Kennedy make his way down the street. And no one realized that Oswald wasn’t around.

the 6th floor museum
You can visit the 6th floor museum to see where the shooting occurred.

As soon as the convertible car turned onto Elm Street, there were 3 shots that were fired. Two shots hit the President and their locations are now marked with a large X in the middle of the street.

The Grassy Knoll

Although there have been several theories that the shots came from the ‘grassy knoll’ area down the street from the depository, this has never been proven to be true.

However, on the 6th floor, a rifle and 3 shell casings were found on the floor below the open window, and was traced back to Lee Harvey Oswald.

Amazingly, Lee Harvey Oswald exited the building without incident. However within a few minutes, the staff of the book depository had everyone accounted for, except for Oswald himself.

John F. Kennedy
The famous grassy knoll where rumors stated that shot were fired from here as well as the book depository.

An A.P.B. was sent out in hopes to find the man that shot JFK. Within minutes, a Dallas Police Officer, J.P. Tippit stopped to question Oswald as he was walking down the street. As Tippit got out of his vehicle to approach him, he was shot and killed at point blank range.

Oswald then fled into a movie theater. Because he ran past a ticket booth and matched the description of the shooter, the police was called.

Within 45 minutes of the shooting of John F. Kennedy, Oswald was captured.

John F. Kennedy x
In the middle of Elm Street there are two X marks placed on the pavement. Each one indicates where John F. Kennedy was shot.

Although he denied everything, there was plenty of evidence to convict him of the assassination.

However 2 days later, on his transfer to prison, Oswald was shot and killed by Jack Ruby on live television in the basement of the Dallas Police Headquarters.

The events that happened between November 22-24, 1963, not only changed many lives, it changed the world.

The John F. Kennedy Memorial

Most of us are familiar with the eternal flame that is placed at the gravesite of John F. Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

John F. Kennedy memorial
The Dallas memorial to John F. Kennedy.

However, there is also a memorial in historic, downtown Dallas to honor our 35th President.

Between 4 concrete pillared walls, is a dark granite rectangle that is placed low to the ground. It is placed in the center of a lower, recessed concrete area. And it is no higher than a low coffee table.

On one side of the granite is the gold letters that spell out John Fitzgerald Kennedy. Nothing more, nothing less.

While looking at the memorial you may think that something is missing. However, when you really think about it, to the American people, there was something missing.

John F. Kennedy granite
The inside of the memorial only has this one exhibit. A simple, yet meaningful tribute to our 35th President.

Our President, our sense of security, and our hope.

Today the John F. Kennedy Memorial is a place of quiet refuge. An enclosed place of thought and contemplation separated from the city around, but near the sky and earth.

A thoughtful dedication to the President that lost his life on the streets of Dallas, Texas.

Happy Traveling – Jim and Mary

About Our Living Simple Tour

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 124 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : Midlothian, TX
  • Miles Driven : 81.9
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 14,000.5
  • Total Gallons Used : 1,014.5
  • Biking Miles : 0.0
  • Biking Miles To Date : 158.4
  • Hiking Miles : 1.4
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 286.0

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

Follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.

A Visit And Tour Of Cowboys / ATT Stadium, A Wonder To Behold! Day 123

So even if you aren’t a Dallas Cowboys fan, or a football fan in general for that matter, you just can’t help but to still be impressed when you step inside of ATT Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

ATT Stadium - Cowboy Stadium
With four massive arches holding up the structure, there isn’t a post or beam to make for a bad seat in the house!

As avid sports fans, both Mary and I have been to quite a few stadiums and sports facilities in our lifetime.

Now, perhaps because we are both loyal Cincinnati Bengal fans we are easily impressed by a more successful franchise in a much more incredible setting. But the home to the Cowboys is, even with that in mind, certainly a marvel to behold.

As you walk out onto the playing field, you are met by one HUGE star overhead. It was pretty thrilling to walk out on the field and see it all in person.

I can honestly say there is not a single stadium or venue we have ever visited that even comes close to the grandeur and elegance of ATT Stadium.

The tour around the stadium was sensational, and one I would certainly recommend to anyone who come to Dallas.

It is absolutely full-access. From getting to walk on the field, to seeing the suites, locker rooms, offices and oh so much more, the building seems to have no end.

The view from the press box. There is not a bad seat in the house – even in the corners.

I’ll admit that I was pretty much like a kid in a candy store. And, I think Mary was right there too. Especially when we went down to field level and could walk the field.

The 8th Wonder Of The World Relived…

Leave it to Texas to build some gigantic, ground-breaking structures. When the Astrodome was opened in Houston back in 1965, many called it the 8th Wonder of the World.

The entrance to the Cowboy locker room. I would love to know how many stars there are throughout the building!

With it’s AstroTurf and domed ceiling, it was certainly ahead of its time.

And although it has since been demolished after falling into disrepair, it certainly set the stage for stadiums like ATT to be built in the future. And ATT takes talk of an 8th Wonder to a whole new level.

Some Astonishing Facts About ATT Stadium

Located in Arlington, Texas, the stadium cost a whopping 1.2 billion dollars to build.

ATT Stadium
Walking on the field was certainly a highlight of the day for both of us.

In addition to the Cowboys, it is also home to a world-class museum, as well as the Cotton Bowl game and headquarters.

The field’s surface sits 50 feet below ground level, and can be outfitted with turf, natural grass, or even thousands of tons of dirt and mud for Monster Truck events. All in the span of a single day.

ATT Stadium big screen
The massive scoreboard hanging from above. It can be lowered to the field, and when the Boy Scouts have their annual camp out in the stadium, they do so to show movies to the scouts. Talk about an experience!

The scoreboard at ATT Stadium is a marvel too. It stretches nearly 60 yards wide, and is suspended 90 feet over the field. To say it is crystal clear is the understatement of the year.

And the roof? Well, it can be opened in only 12 minutes, and just happens to be the tallest movable glass structure in the world.

Yes, I can safely say we were both kids for the day, and loved every minute of it. It is hard to believe we have only two more full days in Texas before heading to Oklahoma!

Happy Traveling – Jim and Mary.

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 123 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : Midlothian, TX
  • Miles Driven : 79.5
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 13918.6
  • Total Gallons Used : 1,008.6
  • Biking Miles : 5.6
  • Biking Miles To Date : 158.4
  • Hiking Miles : 4.2
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 284.6

About Our Living Simple Tour

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

You can follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.

The Unique Things That You Can Find In Fort Worth, Texas – Day 122

When we planned to spend the day in Fort Worth, we had no idea of all the unique things that we would see.

Based on the recommendations from our friends, family, and followers, we headed to the historic Stockyard district.

Neither of us had been to the area before and neither of us knew what to expect.

The City of Fort Worth

The city of Fort Worth is often referred to as ‘Where the West Begins’. And it is known for their large stockyards that opened in 1890.

Forth Worth Stockyards
Today, the stockyards are home to various shops and restaurants.

By the early 1900’s nearly a million cattle were sold here a year. And the stockyards were not only the home to cattle. There were also sheep and hogs that would be auctioned off as well.

And to entertain all that came to purchase livestock, there were several shops, saloons and restaurants that were built on the streets adjacent to the stockyard.

From the original brick walkways to the historic saloons that are still standing today, the area is now a tourist destination.

Fort Worth
You can walk down the original brick lined streets and head to saloons that have stood for over 100 years.

And although there are many Western Shops scattered throughout Stockyard Station, there are two main attractions that draw visitors from all over the world.

The Cattle Drive

Twice a day, at 11:30am and 4:00pm, you can witness an old-fashioned cattle drive. Ranchers mounted on horseback lead a heard of longhorn cattle down Enterprise Drive from one stockyard to another.

Hundreds of visitors line the streets to witness this event each and every day. And yes, we did so as well.

Forth Worth Cattle drive
Twice a day, the cattle are led down the streets from one stockyard to another.

Billy Bob’s Texas

This famous country & western nightclub claims to be The World’s Largest Honky Tonk. And with over 100,000 square feet of interior space, we can understand why.

Even though we were in Fort Worth mid-day, we decided to go in and take a look around for ourselves.

Billy Bob's Texas
Billy Bob’s Texas is the World’s Largest Honky Tonk Bar and a famous event venue.

Once we walked in the front door, we found ourselves in front of a ticket booth. Although there were no musicians or events scheduled, there was a $2 admission fee just to walk in the door.

So we paid our fee and began to explore the massive building.

There are several bars, dance floors and stages scattered throughout the building.

dance floor
If you look up you will see that there is a crystal lined horse saddle hanging from the ceiling.

However, they doing thing a little different here. First of all, there are no seats at the bars. In fact, besides the seats around the main entertainment stage, there are few seats in the entire place.

And if you look up at the center of the dance floor, you will not find the typical crystal disco ball. Instead, there is a crystal horse saddle hanging and spinning from the ceiling. Just another reminder that you are in Fort Worth, Texas!

fort worth bull riding
The bull riding arena that is inside Billy Bob’s Texas.

And just as another reminder, there is a large neon sign hanging in the corner pointing you to the Rodeo arena. Here, every Friday and Saturday night you can witness real, live bull riding competitions.

After spending a little time exploring inside, it was time for us to head to dinner.

A Dedication To The Performers

However, even on the way out, we found another interesting area. Lining the walls towards the exit, there are plaster plaques dedicated to all of the famous artists and celebrities that have performed at this famous Fort Worth venue.

Each one has hand impressions pressed into them with the name of each individual or group.

fort worth performers
The hand impressions of various artists include Willie Nelson and Ricky Skaggs.

So we took a few minutes to look around and see who we could recognize. And there were a lot!

Not only is Billy Bob’s Texas a great concert venue, it also has been in many movies. And now we can say that we have been there!

Joe T. Garcia’s

Just about a half mile away from the historic Forth Worth stockyards is a Mexican restaurant called Joe T. Garcia’s.

We decided to stop here for drink after a recommendation from a friend. However, we arrived about 20 minutes before they opened.

Joe T Garcias
It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but this Mexican restaurant is huge and gorgeous!

So we decided to wait in the car until it opened. As we scrolled through our pictures and talked about our day, we noticed a police SUV vehicle pull up in front of the building.

Normally, this wouldn’t be anything shocking to us. However, right behind that vehicle were 2 large black SUV’s with dark tinted windows, and another white transporter vehicle lined in a single row.

As we watched from the parking lot, we saw approximately 8 men dressed in Army fatigues quickly run inside the building. Shortly after, a military officer, entered the building surrounded by several men in dress suits.

It was obvious to us that it was the Secret Service. And within 5 minutes, they all came out of the building, entered their vehicles and drove off.

With one final SUV ,that must have been parked down the street, following behind.

famous salsa
We decided after what we just witnessed that we had to buy a jar of salsa too!

So when we finally got inside the restaurant, we had to ask about what we just witnessed.

Although no one could tell us exactly who the gentleman was, we were told he was a high level military official who stopped by there solely to buy a jar of Joe T. Garcia’s salsa.

We just laughed and decided that if the salsa is that good, that we should buy some too!

And that is exactly what we did!

Happy Traveling! Jim and Mary

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 122 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : Midlothian, TX
  • Miles Driven : 76.5
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 13,839.1
  • Total Gallons Used : 1,002.83
  • Biking Miles : 0.0
  • Biking Miles To Date : 152.8
  • Hiking Miles : 1.2
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 280.2

About Our Living Simple Tour

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

Follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.

The Best Part Of Our Trip – The Friends We Meet & Make Along The Way! Day 121

There is nothing better than making and meeting new friends, or reconnecting with old ones!

This amazing journey has taken us to some beautiful places in our first 121 days on the road. Soaring views from mountain tops, surreal ocean views, and more man-made & natural wonders that we ever knew could exist.

But nothing, and I mean nothing compares to the joy of making new friends, reconnecting with old ones, and having the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people from every corner of this incredible country.

hiking to hoover dam
The spaces and places we have been able to see have been sensational. But it is the new and old friends we have been able to meet or reconnect with along the way that makes this trip spectacular.

In fact, it is by our favorite part of our 50 state trip. Whether they be family, long-time followers of our blogs, old friends, or new ones we meet as we travel, we cherish the time we get to connect with people out on the road.

And just this past week in Texas, we were blessed with the opportunity to meet not one, but two incredible couples.

Trish & Kevin

It’s always special for us when someone’s story connects with our own. And when it comes to Trish and Kevin, the connection hits really close to home.

friends we meet
What a pleasure it was to meet Trish and Kevin and see the progress on their retirement property. It brought back a lot of memories for us for sure.

About a year ago, Trish happened upon our Old World Garden Farms website while searching the internet for ideas to create their own retirement space on a 5 acre plot of overgrown land in Texas

When she learned on the blog of our upcoming journey across the U.S., she offered up some advice on seeing a few things in Texas.

But she also invited us to see the progress on their 5 acre plot when we rolled through. And that was an invitation we just couldn’t refuse!

owg farm
Taking a tour of Trish and Kevin’s land reminded us of how long it took to clear and build our little farm back in Ohio. After spending 2010 clearing it all out, this is how it looked in the spring of 2011.

It reminded us so much of where we were just 10 short years ago. Clearing the land by hand. Laying out future paths, buildings, and marking off our house with stakes and tape.

And of course, working every single free moment we had on our dream.

And are they ever working hard on theirs! Talk about two people who are putting in a lot of sweat equity and long hours.

It is amazing to see how much progress they have made already. They took us on a tour of future garden paths, the home site, and where they will build a workshop & barn as well.

owg farm
8 years and a lot of blood, sweat and tears, our dream of living at the farm finally came true!

I think we could have talked for days and days about it all. It was just such a wonderful day spent with an incredible couple, and some wonderful new friends. We can’t wait someday to come back and see the progress!

Reconnecting With A Former Friend & Visitor To Old World Garden Farms

As if that wasn’t enough to make our trip through Texas special, we also were able to meet up with a former visitor to one of our free garden classes we hold at the farm each spring.

friends we meet
What a pleasure it was to see Jayme again, and to meet her husband Pat. Two wonderful people for sure!

Jayme, who hails from Kentucky, came up to attend last years class.

We had such a wonderful time getting to know her then, and when she left, she told us that both her and her husband always head down to Texas for a few months in the winter.

And after seeing our travel schedule, she realized we would both in Texas at the same time. She graciously extended an invitation for us to come enjoy some “porch time” with her and her husband when we passed by – and so it was that we were able to enjoy another wonderful afternoon of great conversation with both.

garden classes at the farm - friends we meet
The garden classes we hold each spring at the farm always seem to lead to new and lasting friendships.

A little hot cider, a few treats to enjoy, and best of all, wonderful conversation. I think we could have talked to Pat and Jayme forever.

One thing is for sure, there are amazingly good people all over this country – and we certainly found 4 of them in our travels through Texas!

Here is to traveling, meeting new friends, and reconnecting with old ones! Happy Traveling – Jim & Mary.

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 121 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : Midlothian, TX
  • Miles Driven : 305.1
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 13762.6
  • Total Gallons Used : 997.28
  • Biking Miles : 0.0
  • Biking Miles To Date : 152.8
  • Hiking Miles : 1.1
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 279.7

About Our Living Simple Tour

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

You can follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.

Space Center Houston & NASA Johnson Space Center, Day 120

The Space Center Houston and NASA Johnson Space Center are the largest tourist attractions in the greater Houston area.

And with good reason! Not only is this the location of significant American and International history. It also serves as a learning and exploration center for the public to enjoy.

So with one full day in Houston, we decided to do what most tourist do. We headed to the Space Center!

The Space Center Houston

What most people don’t realize is that the Space Center Houston is not the same thing as NASA.

neil armstrong statue
This statue of Neil Armstrong is one of two tributes to Neil Armstrong. The exact match of this statue is also station in Russia to signify the two countries working together in space exploration.

The Space Center Houston is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to providing education and exploration about the past and future of space exploration.

Think of it as a large museum dedicated to space travel.

It is the home to the largest spacesuit collection that men and women wore over the years as they traveled into space. It even has the exact ejection suit worn by John Young on the first shuttle flight in 1981.

astronaut
There are many exhibits inside the Space Center including an up close look of the confined quarters that the astronauts worked in.

Not only can you walk around and see artifacts from different space flights. You can also walk through various replica space vessels to see the challenging conditions that the astronauts had to deal with while traveling.

Space Shuttle Independence

And in the front entrance of the Space Center Houston’s main building, you will see the shuttle replica Independence that is mounted on top of an aircraft carrier.

space center Houston
At the front entrance of Space Center Houston, you can see the shuttle that is mounted on top of an aircraft. And you can actually go inside both!

It is the world’s only shuttle mounted on top of an aircraft and the only one in the world allowing the public to enter and explore both vessels.

We thoroughly enjoyed walking through all of the exhibits, watching the films and exploring how life would be in space.

But I think both of use were even more excited about heading to the Mission Control Center at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

Space Center Houston
There is an entire section of the museum dedicated to those that lost their lives during space missions.

The NASA Campus

With every general admission ticket, you are able to take a guided tour on the campus of Johnson’s Space Center.

The property that is home to NASA, was donated by Rice University in the early 1960’s.

And as you take the guided tour of the area, you will notice that it is set up like a college campus with many buildings scattered throughout property.

space center Houston
The campus of NASA is set up like a college campus with many research buildings scattered throughout the property.

As you look around, you will see that each building is numbered on the outside. This makes it easy for all to identify the buildings on the campus.

As we headed through the campus we passed by the astronaut training facility. This is where the staff prepares their bodies for the time that they are going to spend in space.

And another building is the home to the anti-gravity lab. However, most of the buildings are used for scientific research on either the engineering and mechanics of flying in space or the human body impacts resulting from space travel.

saturn V
This building holds Saturn V – the rocket that launched Skylab, the first American Space Station.

However there is one special building that allows a limited amount of visitors in each day.

Apollo Mission Control Center

And if you plan in advance, you may be one of the lucky few that get to tour The Apollo Mission Control Center.

The Space Center Houston offers a limited number of tickets on a daily basis for this tour. It is a behind the scenes look that will take you back in history. when Apollo 11 landed on the moon.

apollo mission control
If you are lucky enough to get tickets, you can go inside the actual Apollo Mission Control Center.

You will sit in the back of the actual Mission Control center that we have all seen on television during epic moments in space history.

Although the mission control center was used for years after the Apollo missions were done and gone, they have restored the area to look just like the day that Neil Armstrong took that first step on the moon.

apollo mission control room
The actual room where Mission Control took place for the Apollo missions.

During the documentary presentation, the control room comes alive with screens and computers tracking the shuttles progress.

Today NASA uses this mission control room purely for tours. However, on this campus is the actual mission control center that still assists with the International Space Station.

So if you ever get to Houston, we highly recommend heading to the Space Center Houston and NASA’s Space Center.

Happy Traveling – Jim and Mary

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 120 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : League City, TX
  • Miles Driven : 31.9
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 13,457.5
  • Total Gallons Used : 975.18
  • Biking Miles : 0.0
  • Biking Miles To Date : 152.8
  • Hiking Miles : 2.1
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 278.6

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

Follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.

A Visit To Galveston – Texas’s Island City On The Gulf Coast – Day 119

Although we have both been to Texas a few times before this trip, one city we had never before ventured to was Galveston, Texas’s Island City on the Gulf Coast.

But wow did we ever pick a great day to take this bustling city in!

Galveston beaches
The beaches were full of life with the warm temperatures. And we took advantage of it as well with a long stroll up and down to soak in a little sun.

Not only were there blue skies all around, the temperatures soared into the upper 70’s. Both made it perfect for sightseeing around the island.

With it’s beaches and portal into the Gulf of Mexico, Galveston is a completely different change in scenery from the rest of Texas.

boardwalk Pleasure Pier in Galveston
The boardwalk at the Pleasure Pier is a hot spot for tourists for sure. It reminded us both a lot of the Santa Monica boardwalk we visited a few months back in California.

Galveston is bustling with all kinds of activity in its ports. It even has it’s own boardwalk, complete with a ferris wheel and amusement rides along the way.

It was a bit surreal to go from the miles and miles of ranches and open land that make up most of rural Texas, and suddenly come upon a beach town!

The Texas Heroes Statue in Galveston. The statue was opened in 1990 to commemorate those who fought during the Texas Revolution.

The city is filled with a mix of new and old. Scattered in with the many massive and beautiful historic buildings, there are plenty of new builds rising up.

Galveston is quite the tourist destination, and is also the home to start of many cruise ship destinations.

A Rough Past

Galveston hasn’t always looked like this. Although it was a bustling port in the late 1800’s, disaster nearly wiped it out.

The city was devastated by a hurricane in 1900. In fact, it still holds the record for the nations deadliest natural disaster. Although estimates vary, some 6,000 to 10,000 people lost their life in the storm.

hurricane of 1900
Before the hurricane hit in 1900, Galveston had enjoyed a lot of growth and prosperity.

Afterwards, the city built seawalls to help with future storms, and actually built the city up over 15 feet to help control flooding.

As you drive and walk about the city, you can find many plaques and memorials still dedicated to the catastrophic event.

Galveston has certainly come a long way since then. And between taking in its beautiful architecture, and walking its beaches, we enjoyed it all.

Before leaving Galveston, we stayed long enough to take in one if its beautiful sunsets.

And yes, we can now retire the Glen Campbell “Galveston” song from our minds now. There really is a song for everywhere we go!

One thing is for sure, Galveston is a completely different side of Texas to see. Tomorrow it will be on to Houston and a visit to the Nasa’s Johnson Space Center.

Happy Traveling – Jim & Mary.

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 119 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : League City, TX
  • Miles Driven : 121.7
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 13,425.6
  • Total Gallons Used : 965.87
  • Biking Miles : 0.0
  • Biking Miles To Date : 152.8
  • Hiking Miles : 3.5
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 276.5

About Our Living Simple Tour

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

You can follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.

Austin Coffee Shops – Where Everyone Is Welcome, Day 118

When in Austin, you must take the time out of your day and go to a coffee shop.

And by coffee shop, I don’t want you to picture the traditional Starbucks store that you see on every corner in almost every city.

Just like almost all things in Austin, their coffee shops are unique. And we have totally fallen in love with them!

outdoor covered pavilion
All Are Welcome in Austin Coffee Shops!

Picture a small building nestled in the middle of a community with a large, outdoor courtyard. Tables scattered throughout the property, filled with guests from all different ethnicities.

The ages range from infant to older adults. And there aren’t just people that frequent the Austin Coffee Shops. Dogs are welcomed to join in the atmosphere as well.

dog water bowls
Not only do most coffee shops allow dogs, they even provide water bowls for them!

In fact, every coffee shop that we have ever been to in Austin is dog friendly. They even have stacks of water bowls ready for the dogs so that they can have their own complimentary drinks.

Our Two Favorite Austin Coffee Shops

So when we headed to Austin today, we decided to take our computers and hang out at a couple of coffee shops this morning.

Radio Coffee & Beer

On the southern edge of Austin proper, we arrived at Radio Coffee & Beer. It is nestled in a small business/residential district right off of highway 290.

Austin Coffee Shop
Inside Radio Coffee you can order your drinks and chose to sit inside or outside.

No matter what time of the day that you arrive, you are lucky if you can find a parking space on either side of the building. However, even if you had to park down the street, the extra few steps are well worth it!

In the middle of the property is a small building that has indoor seating and a bar. Here is where you can order your coffee, beer, or spirited drink, even first thing in the morning.

Austin Coffee Shops Outdoor Seating Areas

Right outside of the front doors are 3 different seating areas. Towards the front of the street are several patio tables that line the front lawn and edge of the parking lot.

covered area
This morning we sat under the covered pavilion, closest to the food trucks!

Then in the center of the courtyard is a covered, outdoor area that is lined with plastic side walls. Here you can enjoy the outdoors without the threat of wind or rain.

And finally, in the ‘backyard’ you will find another covered seating area. However, this time, there are no side walls. Instead, there are electric heaters hanging from ceiling to keep you warm on chilly days.

But the best part of all, is that there are food trucks available to feed your hunger from breakfast to dinner time.

taco food truck
The line at the food truck can get quite long, but the wait is well worth it!

And yes, we did enjoy a cup of coffee and a couple breakfast burritos while we worked here!

By 11:00am we decided to pack up and find one more Austin Coffee Shop to enjoy before we explored the rest of the city.

And that is how we ended up at Cosmic Coffee.

Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden

Just a short mile and half away from Radio Coffee, we arrived at another amazing, indoor/outdoor coffee shop.

Austin Cosmic Coffee Shop
Cosmic Coffe + Beer shop was just a short distance away from Radio Coffee.

Cosmic Coffee sits just off the main road and shares a parking lot with an indoor climbing facility.

It has a large outdoor, open courtyard filled with outdoor heaters and food trucks.

The area is large enough for groups, families and all to enjoy comfortably. There is also covered outdoor seating and fire pits in the front lawn area.

families in the courtyard
The best part about Austin Coffee Shops is that everyone can come and enjoy them!

And just like Radio Coffee, it has a fully covered, outdoor room for those that might get a little colder, but still want to enjoy the outdoor seating area.

But this Austin Coffee Shop has something else that is unique – composting piles and a large chicken coop!

chickens at austin coffee shop
Cosmic Coffee even has compost bins and chickens!

Talk about our kind of place!

We could have stayed here all day, but we decided to move on and check out downtown Austin and the famous 6th Street!

To read all of our adventures from day one, check out all of our Daily Blog Posts.

Happy Traveling! Jim and Mary

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 118 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : Katy, TX
  • Miles Driven : 145.0
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 13,303.9
  • Total Gallons Used : 964.05
  • Biking Miles : 0.0
  • Biking Miles To Date : 152.8
  • Hiking Miles : 0.0
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 273.0

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

Follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.

The Buc-ee’s Experience – Everything Really Is Bigger In Texas! Day 117

If you have ever driven in the state of Texas, then you probably know of the ginormous convenience stores that go by the name of Buc-ee’s. (pronounced bucky’s)

If you talk to anyone from Texas about spending time in Texas, they will almost always ask if you stopped at a Buc-ee’s. In fact, several folks mentioned it to us as a must-see stop on our Texas page before we ever left for the trip.

The cult-like following the store has garnered since it opened its first store in 1982 is simply unbelievable. Especially when you consider that it is not a 5-star restaurant, or a high-end shopping mecca – but instead, a convenience store!

inside of Buc-ees
The inside of Buc-ee’s. The picture simply does not do justice to how massive this store really is!

And it is not just famous among Texans. Food & Wine Magazine just recently named it 2019’s top convenience store for the entire nation.

The Buc-ee’s Experience

So what makes Buc-ee’s so special?

Well, for starters, their stores are a living testament to the saying that “Everything Is Bigger In Texas.”

They are certainly easy to spot as you drive along the highways of the state. There is nothing small or diminutive about Buc-ee’s stores – inside or out.

Everything is bigger in Texas, including these convenience stores!

As we pulled into the Buc-ee’s New Braunfels location, which by the way is considered to be the largest convenience store in the world, the “bigness” was apparent right away.

The store sits on 18 acres of land, with a 60,000 square foot building smack in the middle! And then there are the fuel islands.

One massive island certainly wouldn’t be enough. So instead there are two gigantic ones, one in front of the other. And together, they hold an almost unfathomable 120 fueling spots.

fuel islands
Two massive fuel islands hold 120 pumps. And the funny thing is, there was hardly a space to be found to fill up!

Even The Bathrooms Are Big

There is nothing small about the store in any shape or form. And once inside, the store seems to go on forever.

It has everything you could ever need and more. A gift shop, food stations galore, clothing, books – and the list goes on and on.

And that food just isn’t your run of the mill convenience store food. In fact, there are some that will tell you Buc-ee’s has some of the best brisket around. While others will tell you their sausage and sausage sandwiches are to die for. All at a convenience store none the less!

world famous bathrooms
The entrance sign to Buc-ee’s massive bathrooms.

But maybe most famous of are the Buc-ee’s beaver nuggets. Yes, it seems folks can get enough of these treats which can best be described as a puffed corn snack. Apparently, they are ridiculously addictive. And judging by all of the bags we witnessed being sold, they must be!

And last but certainly not least – the “Everything is Bigger In Texas” theme continues with the bathrooms. I mean when you put a sign above the bathrooms that says “world famous restrooms” – they must be special.

I can tell you this, I have truly never seen a larger restroom in my life. Not even at major stadiums.

We’ve managed to see some incredible sights on this trip, and I guess we can now include the Buc-ee’s expereince right along with them!

Happy Traveling – Jim and Mary

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 117 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : San Marcos, TX
  • Miles Driven : 106.7
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 13,069.4
  • Total Gallons Used : 947.06
  • Biking Miles : 0.0
  • Biking Miles To Date : 152.8
  • Hiking Miles : 3.1
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 273.0

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

You can follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.

A Visit To The San Antonio Riverwalk And The Alamo, Day 116

Today we had opportunity to spend a little time in San Antonio, Texas.

And no stop in San Antonio would be complete without a visit to both The River Walk and The Alamo.

The San Antonio River Walk

Because it was getting close to lunch time, we decided that we would first head to the River Walk.

For those who aren’t familiar with the area, there are a several restaurants, shops and museums located one level below the street, right along the San Antonio river.

On either side of the river are pedestrian walkways that are connected by several bridges for easy access to get from side to side.

San Antonio River Walk
The view from one of the bridges above the River Walk.

Although this is a beautiful area to dine and shop today, the River Walk wasn’t always a major tourist attraction. In fact, it was just the opposite.

The area that currently makes up the most visited section in San Antonio was once a very dangerous place to be. The river that ran right through the city would flood at a moments notice. In fact, the fast and furious flood waters cost many people their lives.

However, in 1929, there was a proposed plan to improve the aesthetics of the river. It took over 10 years to get the project funded and the redesign was completed as part of the Works Progress Administration.

river walk boat tour
You can even take a boat tour down the River Wall to learn about the history the the area.

Not only did they restructure the flow of the river, they made the area safe for pedestrians.

Shopping and Dining Along The San Antonio River

By the 1950’s restaurants and shops began to occupy the basements level of the buildings adjacent to the walkway. They opened their doors so that anyone that used the River Walk could dine and shop without ever having to go on the streets.

And due to the exploding popularity of the area, the first hotel opened on the Riverwalk in 1962.

San Antonio River Walk at Night
This time of the year the River Walk is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights.

Today not only is the San Antonio River Walk filled with tourists. It is also the location for various performances and festivals.

You can even take a guided River Boat tour. And if you are simply too worn out from walking, there is now a boat shuttle that will take you from one end of the River Walk to the other.

Remembering The Alamo

After we sat outside and ate lunch along the river, we decided to finish our walk by heading to the Alamo.

It only takes a few minutes to get from the San Antonio River Walk to the famous Alamo Mission building by foot.

And if you have never been there, your first impression might be shock you. The small structure sits right in the middle of downtown San Antonio and looks much smaller than what most people imagine.

The Alamo
The 300+ year old Alamo Mission building.

However, this historic 300+ year old, Catholic mission building became one of the most iconic military posts in the country.

In an attempt to regain control of the Texas territory, on February 23, 1836, Mexico conducted an attack on the fort. There were forces numbering in the thousands as compared to the Alamo’s 200 defenders.

The battle lasted for 13 days before the Mexican forces finally overpowered the US troops. Although Texas regained control later that year, the San Antonio Alamo building became a symbol of resilience and independence.

Today, you can enter the buildings, take an audio tour, and if you are lucky, you might even see a live reenactment on the adjacent grounds.

Letter From the Alamo
In the front lawn sits a plague with a letter pleading for assistance during the raid on The Alamo.

There are many artifacts of the time periods available for viewing. And there are plenty of time line boards and written stories that will take you back in history as you walk through the Alamo.

Although there are many other things to see and do in San Antonio, these two attractions should surely be on the top of your list!

Happy Traveling – Jim and Mary

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 116 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : San Marcos, TX
  • Miles Driven : 106.7
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 13,069.4
  • Total Gallons Used : 947.06
  • Biking Miles : 0.0
  • Biking Miles To Date : 152.8
  • Hiking Miles : 3.1
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 273.0

About Our Living Simple Tour

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

Follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.

A New Year’s Day Boot-Stomping Visit To Historic Gruene, Texas – Day 115

I don’t think we could have picked a better place to celebrate New Year’s Day than with our visit to historic Gruene, Texas.

This incredibly quaint town was absolutely overflowing with activity!

Outside of the Gruene Dance Hall. It is one of the oldest operating dance halls in Texas.

From enjoying the many shops along the main drag and an incredible meal at the Gristmill River restaurant, to watching the overflowing crowd at Gruene Hall dance away to live country music, it was a day we won’t soon forget.

New Years Day In Gruene, Texas

This actually isn’t our first visit to this charming little Texas town.

One of the best dinners so far on the trip. The food and the atmosphere are simply incredible!

We “discovered” it a year or so ago on the recommendation of a friend. At the time, we happened to be visiting Austin on a 3 day trip, and were told that stopping in Gruene was a must-do activity.

Was she ever right – we fell in love with it immediately! And knew then and there we would be coming back as part of our big trip as well.

The History

Gruene, Texas was settled in the early 1840’s by German immigrants. And for years, cotton was the big crop that kept the city going. But as farming and technology progressed, and the boll weevil hit in the 1920’s, the town became all but deserted.

The Dance Hall In Gruene Texas
Gruene Hall was hopping on New Year’s Day.

But in the mid 1970’s that all changed with a revitalization effort to save some of the historic buildings. And it worked like a charm!

The old mill is now a thriving restaurant. And Gruene Hall remains a huge destination for dancing and singing. The hall is actually one of the oldest operating dance halls in the entire state of Texas!

Being inside the dance hall is almost surreal. It is a thrill to walk on those old wooden boards, and take in the music and dancing!

The Gristmill in Gruene Texas
Taking in a meal inside the old mill. The atmosphere and food are almost too good to be true.

We didn’t know it at the time, but it is a huge tradition for many Texans to come to Gruene on New Year’s Day. And the hustle and bustle of activity made it even more thrilling to visit this time around.

The Gristmill Restaurant in Gruene, Texas

Just the experience of taking a meal at the Gristmill Restaurant is more than enough to make your day. You can dine indoors in the old mill, or out on their patio overlooking the Guadeloupe river.

It gets so busy that they use a huge chalkboard for the waiting list. And no having to listen to hear you name called, just enjoy some music out in the courtyard and watch for your name to go up on the board.

The big chalkboard is used for their waiting list. What a great concept!

And the meal? Two amazing fire-roasted chicken dinners with green beans, mashed potatoes and garlic bread for a grand total of $24. Now that’s a deal!

One thing is for sure – if you are ever near Gruene, Texas – you have to make a stop. Take it from us, you won’t regret it! Here is to continuing on with our Texas travels.

Happy New Year and Happy Traveling – Jim and Mary

CURRENT TRIP STATUS TO DATE:

  • Day 115 of 365
  • States : 15/50
  • National Parks / Monuments : 18
  • Stayed In : San Marcos, TX
  • Miles Driven : 52.7
  • Total Trip Miles To Date : 12,962.7
  • Total Gallons Used : 939.32
  • Biking Miles : 0.0
  • Biking Miles To Date : 152.8
  • Hiking Miles : 2.5
  • Hiking Miles To Date : 269.9

About Our Living Simple Tour

On September 9th, 2019, we set out in our NuCamp T@B 400 Teardrop Camper to travel to every state. You can check out all of our dates here : Dates for the States

You can follow along by signing up for our twice weekly email updates at the bottom of the page. You can also follow us on Facebook : Live Simple Tour Facebook and Instagram : Live Simple Now Instagram Page.