Underground Wonders, New Friendships, and Artful Encounters In Carlsbad, NM.

There’s something downright magical about the RV lifestyle, isn’t there? We’re constantly on the move, collecting memories and friendships like souvenirs from every corner of the country. Conversely, this also means that Judy and I are typically solo travelers for the majority of our trips. We have observed, firsthand, the larger caravans of RV’ers crisscrossing the roadways on preplanned routes. Your travel buddies become your mobile family, and at every stop, you’re surrounded by familiar faces and inside jokes that span miles of road. But there’s another kind of RV encounter, the kind that sneaks up on you. That’s when you meet a fellow traveler by pure coincidence. Finding a connection with another couple who seem like old friends, even though we've only just met. No prearranged plans, no expectations. Just four people crossing paths and instantly clicking over sightseeing and travel. We got to experience this serendipity firsthand during our stop in Carlsbad, NM. Picture us, 750 feet underground in the Carlsbad Caverns, bumping into another couple who were, figuratively speaking, mirror images of ourselves. It all began with the simplest exchange of everyday pleasantries between two previously unknown travelers, just a friendly hello, a casual question, and a shared smile. In that instant, a genuine connection sparked, transforming strangers into travel companions as we swapped stories and laughter. That effortless, immediate bond is what turned an ordinary encounter into the start of a wonderful friendship. It’s not every day you make new friends beneath stalactites!

Carlsbad, NM became our gateway to an underground world after we left behind the rugged expanse of Terlingua, TX and the wild beauty of Big Bend National Park. Still anchored in the Chihuahuan Desert, our first day found us venturing about 40 miles into the heart of the Guadalupe

Natural Entrance to the Carlsbad Caverns

 Mountains—where the earth conceals one of its grandest secrets. Exploring Carlsbad Caverns isn’t just a day trip; it’s an epic journey into a colossal subterranean landscape. The caverns themselves are so vast and awe-inspiring, you feel dwarfed by the sheer scale of the chambers and tunnels. During peak season, the caverns teem with up to 4,000 visitors, but we were lucky enough to experience the haunting quiet of the off-season with fewer than 500 guests. Visiting when the caverns are nearly empty heightened our sense of awe and made every moment feel like a private experience. The discovery of Carlsbad Caverns is rooted in wonder; Jim White, a 16-year-old cowboy, first glimpsed the swarm of bats erupting from the cave’s yawning natural entrance in 1898. His curiosity sparked the exploration of the main accessible chambers, leading to the protection and eventual designation of the caverns as a National Monument in 1923 and a National Park in 1930. Today, the caverns are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated as

En Route to the Big Room, Carlsbad Caverns 

one of the world’s most remarkable underground marvels. It’s hard to grasp the scale until you descend into the cave yourself. Carlsbad Caverns is a world beneath the world, a place where massive chambers stretch out in quiet grandeur, and where each step reveals breathtaking formations that defy imagination. The journey from the Natural Entrance to the Big Room takes you 750 feet below the surface, following a steep, paved trail with switchbacks that winds for 1¼ miles.  The main chamber, known as “The Big Room”,  is so vast it’s easy to lose track of time and space as you follow the 1 ¼ mile long path around the most amazing formations of stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, pillars and gnome shaped creations formed over millions of years. Even after more than a century of exploration, Carlsbad Caverns remains a mystery in many ways. Over 30 miles of passages have been mapped in the main cave, with new rooms still being uncovered among the park’s 117+ known caves. The surrounding limestone, formed over 250 million years ago, continues to conceal wonders waiting to be revealed.

Steven, Judy with Rachelle and Kevin

We first met Rachelle and Kevin in the heart of the caverns, and before long, they became our fellow travelers. The next day, we set out on a journey north to Roswell, NM—dubbed the "Alien Capital of the World"—known for its playful extraterrestrial theme and its reputation tied to the famous 1947 UFO incident. We invited Rachelle and Kevin to join us, and they eagerly accepted. That morning, our main destination was the International UFO Museum and Research Center, which features an in-depth exploration of the alleged alien crash in 1947 through comprehensive accounts and a vast research library. Roswell combines quirky charm, intriguing conspiracy lore, and classic Southwestern ambiance, offering visitors a truly unique and "otherworldly" experience.

International UFO Museum

Miniatures and Curious Collections Museum

After lunch, we said our goodbyes to Rachelle and Kevin, agreeing to keep in touch and meet again down the road, possibly in Cottonwood, Arizona in a few weeks. With our plans set, we headed off to the Miniatures and Curious Collections Museum. This museum proved to be a fascinating stop, filled with intricate dollhouses, imaginative miniature scenes, and unusual collections. The exhibits offered a welcome change from Roswell’s alien-themed attractions. From one-of-a-kind curios to a piano player, there was no shortage of creativity and detail to enjoy.

Drawn back to Roswell by the city’s creative energy, we returned a few days later to explore the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art. The most remarkable arts center we have ever visited, and one we will compare to all future contemporary art museums. The museum 

"Lucky the Immortal" by Michael Ferris Jr, Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art

dazzles visitors with over 500 contemporary works including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, all curated from the celebrated Roswell Artist-in-Residence (RAiR) program. Established in 1994, the unique RAiR program provides visiting artists not only with spacious studio facilities and comfortable housing, but also generous financial support. This environment allows artists to focus fully on their creative work, free from the stress of monetary concerns. Its bright, airy galleries display an impressive array of pieces, reflecting the diversity and innovation of artists from across the country. With its special mission and ever-changing exhibits, the Anderson Museum offers an inspiring stop well beyond Roswell’s extraterrestrial fame.

Of course, between alien museums and modern art, we couldn’t just let our sneakers gather dust or miss out on the wild beauty of southern New Mexico’s desert terrain. So, with our step counters pleading for mercy and a craving for sunshine, we carved out time to explore the local state parks—because in New Mexico, even the landscape is interesting and unique!

• Brantley Lake State Park, New Mexico’s southernmost park, was created in 1987 when the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation completed Brantley Dam across the Pecos River, forming the lake and establishing the park as a hub for water recreation. While the lake usually draws boaters and anglers, our visit offered a rare, peaceful afternoon with no crowds, just the quiet beauty of the water and the surrounding desert. It was the perfect time for a sunny, tranquil hike along the lakeshore.

• Set atop a scenic ridge in Carlsbad, New Mexico, the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park offers sweeping views over the Pecos River valley and city below.

  

  Elk at the Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park 

  The easy, paved walking trail winds through striking Chihuahuan Desert terrain, pine-juniper forests, and sand dunes, making it a wonderful spot to soak in diverse southwestern landscapes and stretch your legs. We spotted very few animals—most seemed to be tucked away in their dens for a midday siesta, except for the elk, who happily posed for a picture and stole the show!  

 

Reflecting on our time in Carlsbad and Roswell, it’s clear the RV lifestyle is more than just discovering new places, it’s about the unexpected connections that make the journey truly unforgettable. There’s something special about traversing underground wonders and quirky towns with newfound friends who seem to mirror your own spirit for adventure. Meeting Rachelle and Kevin so far from home and instantly clicking amidst the grandeur of Carlsbad Caverns and the playful alien lore of Roswell, was a reminder that travel isn’t just about the destinations, but the company you keep along the way. While we said our goodbyes with hopes of meeting again in Cottonwood, Arizona, the beauty of this lifestyle is the open-ended promise of new adventures and friendships waiting just around the bend. Who knows when our paths will cross again or what stories are still waiting to unfold? For now, we hold onto the memories and the anticipation of future reunions—always ready for what comes next, as we tell… the Rest of the Story.

Echoes Across the Desert: Journey & Discovery in Big Bend National Park.

As a seasoned RV traveler and storyteller, I’ve explored countless corners of America, but few places have left an imprint on me quite like Big Bend National Park. Our latest journey took us deep into southern west Texas, where the vastness of the Chihuahuan Desert astounded us; its scale stretches across three states and thousands of miles into Mexico. Driving through, we were constantly reminded of how remote and unspoiled this land remains, with dramatic topography ranging from the Chisos Mountains soaring nearly 8,000 feet into the sky to the Rio Grande at just 1,800 feet above sea level. Rugged canyons, rocky terrain, and faulted mountains define every vista, and the sense of isolation is profound. The few surrounding towns—like Terlingua, Study Butte, and Marathon—are tiny, offering just the bare essentials. During our stay, we visited the ghost town of Terlingua on a cold, cloudy day and spent several days hiking moderate trails throughout Big Bend, reveling in the stark beauty and solitude. These experiences deepened our appreciation for both the landscape and the resilience needed to thrive in this rugged corner of Texas.

Entrance to Big Bend National Park

Big Bend is known for its blazing summer heat, often soaring well above 100 degrees, which made our mid-January visit seem like a smart escape from the extreme summer temperature. Ironically, instead of the sun-drenched days we expected, we were met with a string of cold temperatures, cloudy skies, and even rain—conditions that felt completely out of place for a region that typically receives less than 10 inches of precipitation a year. The desert’s reputation for dryness and relentless sun was flipped on its head during our stay, and the weather almost seemed like nature’s joke. Our campsite was just three miles from the national park entrance. Inside the park there are over 100 miles of scenic paved roads providing extensive access to both desert and mountain landscapes. 

Day 1

Rio Grande Nature Trail & the Rio Grande River

On our first day, we traveled 26 miles into the park, passing the Chisos Mountains en route to Panther Junction Visitor Center. As the principal visitor center in the park, it provides comprehensive information, permits, and orientation for guests. The facility features exhibits detailing both the natural and cultural history of the Chihuahuan Desert, a 20-minute informational video outlining the biodiversity of the park, as well as an extensive three-dimensional topographic map of the park. Park rangers frequently utilize this map to assist visitors with identifying hiking trails, the locations of the other four visitor centers, off-road scenic drives, and recommended camping sites.

Rio Grande River at the "Bosque"

After familiarizing ourselves with the park at the visitors' center, we drove south to the Rio Grande Village Visitor Center. We took the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail, a short and easy walk that proved surprisingly memorable. The river made a sweeping curve, nearly surrounding us on three sides and revealing the signature bend for which the park is named. Across the water, the pale cliffs of the Sierra del Carmen Mountains anchored the horizon and hinted at Boquillas Canyon’s hidden depths. What captured our attention most was the lush greenery lining the riverbanks—a vibrant stretch called the bosque. Towering cottonwoods and willows thrived here, with stands of giant reeds forming dense thickets. The air was humid, alive with the scent of vegetation and the calls of hidden birds, a stark contrast to the parched desert just beyond the river’s reach.

 Day 4

Despite a stretch of less-than-ideal weather between our initial outing in Big Bend and later explorations, we seized the opportunity on a partially overcast day to hike the Mule Ears Spring Trail, optimistic that the skies might clear and the sunshine would eventually warm

Mule Ears Spring Trail w/ Mules Ear Rock Formation

us. This trail, situated in the southwestern corner of the park, lies 20 miles along the spectacular 31-mile Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive—a route renowned for its dramatic and diverse scenery. We trekked along, taking in sweeping vistas and the iconic Mule Ears rock formation, until we reached the spring, a petite riparian oasis bubbling up from the desert. From there, we extended our walk for about a mile on the Smokey Creek Trail, before pausing for a picnic lunch with the stunning rock formations as our backdrop. Altogether, we covered just under five miles on moderately challenging desert terrain, completing the round trip, including lunch, in about two and a half hours. Getting out and moving in such a dynamic, ever-changing landscape isn’t just exercise, it’s a privilege, and a powerful reminder of how nature can invigorate both body and spirit.

 Day 5

As the weather steadily improved, we set our sights on hiking in the renowned Chisos

On the Window Trail in the Chisos Mountains

Mountains, which rise dramatically from the Chihuahuan Desert plain. These mountains form a striking "sky island" ecosystem—an elevated, forested sanctuary above 7,800 feet that offers cool respite from the desert’s aridity. For this adventure, we chose the legendary Window Trail, often celebrated as one of Big Bend’s most spectacular and “must-experience” hikes. The trail spans 4.5 miles, winding through a volcanic basin and leading to a breathtakingly narrow pour-off that frames panoramic vistas of the desert beyond. The landscape along the way is truly remarkable, with terrain that continually transforms, keeping every step fresh and exciting. At the trail’s dramatic terminus, the sheer rock formations plunge a thousand feet into the basin below, creating an awe-inspiring natural window that perfectly captures the wild grandeur of the park. Standing at the edge, you can feel the dizzying drop beneath your feet and marvel at the sculpted stone walls that tower overhead. The uphill return trek is challenging, rewarding hikers with new perspectives of the striking geology and the vastness of the Chisos Basin as you climb back toward the trailhead.

At the "Window" in the Chisos Mountain

Terlingua Ghost Town Jail

Judy and I have travelled enough to recognize the subtle distinction between merely visiting a town or area and truly getting to know its character. As an example, on a cold and gray day in Terlingua, we set out to discover the town’s so-called ghost tour—a journey less about spine-chilling haunts and more about the lingering spirit of history. The center of town revealed a striking mural of Judy the Burro Lady; her image painted boldly on the side of a weathered building. With a laugh, I convinced my wife Judy to pose in front of it, snapping a photo that, at the time, felt like a lighthearted souvenir. Later, our wandering took us to the old cemetery, a resting place woven into the fabric of Terlingua’s past. Among the weathered headstones and handmade decorations, one grave caught my eye—adorned with tokens and the unmistakable name of Judy the Burro Lady. I stood there, oddly moved, realizing that the character from the mural was real, her story embedded in the desert dust at my feet. The playful photograph we’d taken suddenly gained weight, becoming a bridge between the town’s living quirkiness and its quiet, storied past. The story took on new depth when, following a local’s advice, we ventured to the Boat House,

 a gathering spot more bar than restaurant, its warmth amplified by a patchwork of food trucks just out back. The bar was lively but intimate, and over a casual meal and a couple of drinks, we struck up a conversation with the bartender, a Terlingua resident of over twenty years. On a whim, I shared our encounter with the mural and the grave, mentioning the serendipity of my wife’s name. What followed was a revelation: Judy the Burro Lady was not just a legend but had been the bartender’s friend—her real name was Judy Magers, a woman who had called Terlingua home for her entire life. He spoke of her fiercely independent spirit, her decades spent traversing the Big Bend region atop her burro, living simply, quietly, and entirely on her own terms. She was a wanderer, easily recognized by her wide-brimmed sombrero and minimal possessions, a figure who had become a kind of local myth. Hearing her story from someone who knew her, it became clear why the town had honored her with a mural. That painting, once just a curiosity, now stood as a tribute to a true icon of Terlingua: a silent testament to the respect and affection the community held for her, and a reminder that sometimes the most extraordinary legacies are lived far from the spotlight. And that, my friends, is the difference between simply touring attractions and actually getting to know the people and the place, as we tell… the Rest of the Story.

Visiting Fort Clark Springs in Texas: An Oasis Amidst the Desert

Organizing a 160-day adventure to new states and destinations is exciting, especially when it comes to picking iconic places and mapping out RV camping spots that look enticing. Sometimes these choices turn out well—other times, not so much. The saying “sometimes you have to break a few eggs” captures our experience in Brackettville, TX. Essentially, planning an epic journey to unfamiliar places often means taking risks and staying at locations that are either unheard of or less desirable. So, once I had mapped out our exploration of the Gulf Coast, I next turned my sights to southwestern Texas, the Rio Grande River, and the border with Mexico. Whilst reviewing Google Maps and doing some research on my National Parks phone app, I discovered Big Bend National Park in west Texas and decided that this might be an interesting place to visit as well as a good place to escape the cold weather in January. But to get from Corpus Christi to Big Bend in one day’s travel was farther than we like to travel in one day.  An intermediary stop would be required. That is when Brackettville, TX became a destination. Interestingly enough, my first choice for an intermediate stop was a city called Del Rio, Texas. A border city that sits on the Rio Grande River across from Ciudad Acuña, Mexico. Del Rio looked to be a much more interesting place to stay. Alas, the campground that I was looking to book into, which had excellent reviews, could not accommodate our reservation. Brackettville was a reluctant second choice.

Let me see if I can use words to paint you a picture of what this western part of Texas looks like. If I were polite, I would say that the terrain and landscape is rugged and unforgiving. If I were to be honest, I’d say that the terrain and scenery is mean and ugly. The trees are stunted with oddly angled branches, set in a vast landscape of red, tan, and brown dirt and rocks. On many travel days, Judy and I have looked out the windows of the truck and marveled at the scenery. Not this trip! We were in stunned silence as we gazed at the miles of nothingness only broken up by a smattering of buttes and hills of scrub brush and rocks. Google describes the landscape around Brackettville, TX, as “a transition zone characterized by scenic, rugged terrain where the eastern edge of the Chihuahuan Desert meets the brushy South Texas Plains and the southern tip of the Hill Country. It features rolling, rocky hills, mesquite-dotted plains, and arid, open prairie”. Yeah, I think that’s also being polite.

In the latter half of the 19^th century, Brackettville was the home of a frontier army post called Fort Clark. Fort Clark Springs is now a neighborhood and community spanning 2,700 acres that was originally the site of the post. Established in 1852, the Fort served for 92 years before its decommissioning in 1946. Throughout its operational period, Fort Clark played a pivotal role as a frontier outpost, cavalry base, and training center. Notably, it hosted units such as the Buffalo Soldiers and Black Seminole Indian Scouts and functioned as a primary cavalry training ground for all U.S. Army cavalry units. Among its distinguished personnel, General George Patton was stationed at Fort Clark prior to World War II.

The selection of Brackettville, Texas, for this significant military installation was strategic.

Las Moras Spring in Historic Fort Clark

In 1852, Fort Clark represented one of the westernmost outposts of the Union, offering security along the Texas-Mexico border following Texas’s admission to the Union in 1845. Another critical factor in its establishment was the presence of a natural spring, which transformed the surrounding arid region into a viable and sustainable location for settlement and defense. Las Moras Springs, located on the grounds of Fort Clark, discharging 12–14 million gallons of water daily. The spring emerges from a fault in the limestone strata. These historic, 68°F springs feed a massive, million-gallon swimming pool, situated on Fort Clark which is now part of the Fort Clark Springs Community.

Spring Fed Million Gallon Swimming Pool, Fort Clark Springs

Judy in Massive Live Oak Tree

An oasis of rich greenery emerges from the dry, barren terrain, clustered around the spring and creek. Here, you'll find large, ancient pecan trees, towering live oaks, mulberry bushes, and sycamore, willow, and cottonwood trees. Walking through this area is fascinating, especially since, less than 1,000 feet from the water, the land quickly reverts back to the arid wasteland typical of the region. 

The history of Fort Clark Springs as a community is interesting. After the Army decommissioned the base, the area underwent substantial decline; many buildings were either demolished, repurposed for their materials, or allowed to deteriorate over time. In 1971, North American Towns of Texas acquired the land and buildings and redeveloped the former fort into a private recreation and retirement community. Today, Fort Clark Springs features restored historical buildings repurposed as residences and apartments and encompasses a designated historic district with additional single-family homes.

Our Companion for the Day, "Rudy" (aka "Escape Artist") in front of Post HQ

 Amenities within the gated community include a community center, golf course, and extensive walking trails. A former barracks was revitalized into a modest hotel, while both a campground and a full-service RV park were developed. Notably, several original elements of the Fort remain, such as the historic pool, select stables, and a museum dedicated to the site's history. Beyond residency at Fort Clark Springs, the town of Brackettville is small with very limited shopping, no public parks, and few dining options beyond Pizza joints.  Consequently, we spent most of our time exploring the trails, touring the historic district, reading informational displays, or relaxing by the pool.

As our stay at Fort Clark Springs comes to an end, it’s clear that not every RV stop will be a winner. Even though Brackettville wasn’t our top choice, we found value in its history and quiet moments by the spring. Within several days we had explored most of the historic district, so our shorter than average stay here turned out to be convenient. We’re grateful for the opportunity to explore somewhere off the beaten path, even when it wasn’t exactly what we had envisioned. Every stop on our journey adds a unique piece to our story, whether it’s a highlight or just a footnote. With gratitude for these experiences, we’re ready to hit the road and see where adventure takes us, as we tell… the Rest of the Story.

Heading Back to the Gulf Coast: A Visit to Corpus Christi, Texas

We are a family who likes to dig our toes in the sand. If you grow up in Massachusetts, chances are you’ve spent some time on a beach, someplace. Heading to the beach was always something we did with the kids, and still to this day, on our RV travels, often seem to turn up on a beach. To be able to follow the Gulf Coast, hopping from one beachside city to another is an amazing opportunity, even if it means sweeping additional sand out of the RV. When we left you last, we were landlocked and we were basking in the peculiar charm of Austin, that delightfully oddball capitol city of Texas. Of course, just when you start figuring out which food truck sells the best tacos or which Texas B-B-Q joint has the best sauce, it’s time to pack up and say goodbye to your familiar campsite and hit the road, because, apparently, our RV has a travel quota to meet. So, for the first time ever, we were a family of four traveling together in the RV, pulling in its slides, piling into the truck, and heading south to the Gulf Coast. Back to the beach. Our next destination being Corpus Christi, Texas, just 150 miles north of the Mexico border. Our campsite was in the city of Rockport, 30 miles north of Corpus Christi, but an easy drive to a lovely city on the water.

Ever since I dreamed up this retirement RV lifestyle, I have always said that the kids can come and visit, but said visitation is limited to no more than seven days at a time. The thought being, “Hey we love you & we’re glad to see you, but don’t outstay your welcome; it’s not personal, but it’s time for you to leave”. And I think both children understand, are thankful for the time and experiences, but also look forward to leaving us and continuing with their lives.

Keeping in mind that the kids would only be with us in Corpus Christi for a few days, we chose to book a city tour as soon as we arrived. This time, we opted for a comfortable van ride with

Steven, Judy, Josh, Susan, & Morgan

"Enjoy Corpus Christi Tours". Our guides, Susan and Rene—a husband-and-wife duo specializing in sightseeing—led us on a relaxed two-hour journey through the city while sharing highlights from Corpus Christi’s 170-year history. As we traveled, Susan pointed out various restaurants, important historical spots, and an impressive variety of murals decorating many buildings. What stood out most was the city’s strong dedication to public art, which enhances the downtown area and celebrates both coastal and Chicano/Tejano culture. Events like the annual Mural Fest further these efforts, establishing Corpus Christi as a vibrant arts destination where local artists express the city’s unique identity.

Following our city tour, we enjoyed lunch at a local restaurant recommended by Rene

Walking Along the Corpus Christi Jetties 

& Susan. Afterward, we took a leisurely stroll along the shoreline and the impressive seawall that safeguards the downtown area from storms. Like many other cities on the Gulf Coast, Corpus Christi has endured the devastating impact of hurricanes, prompting the construction of a protective seawall in 1941. Rising 14 feet high, the seawall’s development added enough land to create Shoreline Boulevard, which now runs parallel to the bayfront and has fostered additional growth in the area. We also explored the rock jetties that shield the harbor, many of which are open for walking. We ended our day in Corpus Christi with a peaceful walk along one of these jetties before returning to the camper for our final dinner together. It was a memorable experience, leaving us grateful for the moments shared and the beauty we discovered along the Texas coast.

Saying Goodbye at the Airport

Jade Statue at Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures

After dropping the children off at the airport, we headed back to downtown Corpus Christi to visit The Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures. This museum, though modest in size, centers around a collection of art, artifacts, and costumes curated by its founder, Billie Trimble Chandler. Ms. Chandler, an educator with nearly twenty years of experience living and teaching in Japan, assembled an extensive assortment of Japanese art, including Hakata dolls, Ikebana flower arrangements, and various historical artifacts. While the museum features several noteworthy pieces, the layout could benefit from improvement, as the exhibits appear somewhat fragmented and challenging to navigate. I didn’t find this museum especially interesting, so I was relieved that their admission fee was complimentary at the time we went.

Following our exploration of Corpus Christi's historical and artistic 

highlights, we ventured out to appreciate the scenic wonders of the Gulf Coast. The weather conditions were favorable, allowing us to plan a visit to Malaquite Beach, located 35 miles south of Corpus Christi on Padre Island National Seashore. This destination offers excellent facilities and pristine, powdery white sand. We walked along the beach for several miles with only seagulls as companions and found the scenery to be exceptionally impressive. Enjoying the warmth of the sun, the tranquil sound of the waves, and the soft sand in January contributed to a truly unique and memorable experience.

Our journey along the Texas Gulf Coast has been a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, offering us countless opportunities to explore new places and create lasting memories. Each stop, from the vibrant city streets of Corpus Christi to the weird and wonderful city of Austin, reminded us of the simple joys found in fresh experiences and shared moments. Traveling as a family for the last two stops has made us appreciate the luxury of time—time to wander, to learn, and to savor the beauty that surrounds us. We’re off next to the south Texas Brush County, a town called Brackettville, which borders on the vast Chihuahuan Desert. And so, with sand still clinging to our toes and hearts full of gratitude, we continue onward, as we tell… the Rest of the Story. 

The Weird & the Wonderful: Visiting the Bustling, Culturally-Rich City of Austin, TX.

Leaving Galveston meant crossing the two-mile-long Galveston Causeway Bridge, and as we approached the causeway terminus in Texas City, I was truly astonished by the vast network of gas and oil infrastructure that permeates the area in and around Galveston Bay. The intricate array of refineries and industrial facilities is a testament to the region's pivotal role in energy production. Our destination was Austin, TX, the state’s capital. We lucked out with a fantastic campsite on the eastern edge of Austin, just 9 miles from downtown, a perfect home base for our adventures. Even better, we had some VIP visitors for the second half of our stay: both of our adult children flew down and joined us in the camper. Yes, you read that right! Four full-sized adults, all packed into one 320-square-foot camper. We basically formed our own pop-up reality show, “Survivor: Family Edition.” Morgan “hoseyed” the pull-out sofa in the bunkroom and Josh was more than happy to sleep in the loft area. Let’s just say, if you ever want to test your loved ones’ patience, try living together in a space smaller than most walk-in closets. Despite the tight squeeze, we had a blast eating Texas barbeque and discovering the city, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Judy and I arrived in Austin a few days ahead of the kids, giving us some time to explore early and get familiar with the area. Our first adventure was a walking food tour through downtown Austin, particularly around Congress Street. It was there that I tried Texas Barbeque Smoked Brisket for the first time—wow, I can't believe what I'd been missing! We kicked things off at the well-known Cooper's Pit Bar-B-Que, where we learned about proper Bar-B-Que etiquette. Here are a few tips I picked up:

JuiceLand, on Austin Food Tour

1. The food is usually served on a legal-size piece of wax paper. 
2. Serving brisket "wet" refers to slices taken from the point muscle of the brisket and is characterized by intense marbling and tenderness.
3. Bread is served on the side along with hot peppers, onions, beans and a mix of different sauces.

Most of the remaining stops on our food tour focused on tacos, with our guide sharing insights into how Tex-Mex cuisine and Austin's taco trucks evolved. We tried all-natural tacos from Veracruz, which started as a food truck, and sipped on a “Honey Berry Smoothie” at Juiceland, another local favorite. Our last eating stop was in the “Fareground” food court where we tried beef picadillo empanadas, with an avocado cream sauce, followed by a caramel filled churro. Can you say “yum”? The tour was fantastic, Judy and I sampled dishes we wouldn’t typically consider. Texas Bar-B-Que was a highlight - we ate it three times in Austin, including a visit with the kids to Terry Black's Barbecue.

"Old Baldy" 

Next on our list of things to do was stop at McKinney Falls State Park. A 700-acre urban park, in Austin with a topography that is unlike anything we have ever seen before. The limestone rock formations have a moon crater-like appearance caused by the flow of Onion Creek over, around, and through the ancient rock. The exposed limestone covers at least two football fields worth of space, and Onion Creek is still flowing through and over the rock, creating funnels and a swimming hole. There were numerous hiking trails, and we took the 3½ -mile Homestead Trail. Along the way we met "Baldy", a towering Bald Cypress tree believed to be well over 500 years old. The ecosystem around Onion Creek was intriguing and treacherous as Judy found out firsthand. 

OUCH, those Cacti are Sharp!

Trish & Judy at Rudy's Country Store & B-B-Q 

One incredible advantage of our RV lifestyle is the way it brings unexpected reunions and serendipitous encounters. Thanks to our travels, Judy had the chance to reconnect with Trish, a high school classmate she hadn't seen in over 40 years; a meeting that never would have happened if not for our journey taking us across the Southwestern United States. Once again, Texas Bar-B-Que was selected for the meal, as Trish hosted us at Rudy’s “Country Store” & Bar-B-Q. The meal was delightful, and we lingered at the table, chatting and reminiscing about their high school days, and sharing updates about fellow classmates. After all that Texas Bar-B-Que and laughter, we left Rudy’s with enough stories and sauce stains to prove that nostalgia is best served well done.

 And then the kids flew into town, and the activity level went into overdrive:

Tau Ceti Mural, Downtown Austin

The four of us went on a three-hour electric bike tour around Austin, covering 12 miles and exploring both the city and its neighboring areas. Riding the e-bikes was simple and made for an easygoing journey as we wound our way through Zilker Park and along Lady Bird Lake, eventually stopping at the well-known Congress Bridge, where Mexican free-tailed bats make their summer home. Our route took us through Austin’s Bouldin Creek and Zilker neighborhoods Then we crossed the Colorado River for a scenic ride through downtown Austin.

Zilker Metropolitan Park overlooking Lady Bird Lake

It was on our bicycle tour of the Bouldin Creek neighborhood that we discovered our next “off the beaten path” adventure and house tour. But before I start, I think a bit of background is required. The Bouldin Creek neighborhood developed as an early Austin suburb with modest homes. In the last 20 years, the neighborhood has transformed into a highly desirable, eclectic urban neighborhood, known for its historic bungalows, with a vibrant mix of architectural styles and art. 

Our tour route had us passing million-dollar contemporary homes, ramshackle bungalows 

Octopus House, Bouldin Creek Neighborhood

of a bygone era, and some unusual homes with interesting artistic twists. For example, we passed by a private residence that had a large pink dinosaur dressed up in Christmas garb, which is an art installation in the front yard that happens to spray people with water. I believe it's a famous piece of “Keeping Austin Weird" local art. We also passed by the “Octopus House”.  As you can see from the picture, it is a distinguished modernist residence, notable for its prominent octopus centerpiece that faces the street. A water feature, visible from outside, appears to flow beneath the foundation, complemented by other artistic elements inspired by marine landscapes.

But the pièce de résistance of our tour was Casa Neverlandia. This home left a lasting impression and was truly extraordinary and embodies the spirit of the Bouldin Creek

Mr. Talbot outside Casa Neverlandia

community. We were so gobsmacked, that after reading the explanation posted on a sign at the curb , we emailed the owner and asked to join a tour of the residence the following morning.  What is Casa Neverlandia?  It is a three-story art house and fine art studio created by artist James Edward Talbot, featuring vibrant mosaics, unique sculptures, and whimsical designs inspired by Peter Pan. It is an immersive residence where architecture blends with fine arts and sculpting, intersecting with both spiritual and mystical themes. Mr. Talbot graduated in the 70’s with a BA in Architecture and a minor in Fine Arts; he bought the house in 1979 and transformed it over decades into a personal masterpiece, with colorful plasterwork, mosaics, and unique structural additions. The property boasts a four-story treehouse in the backyard, accessible via suspension bridges and ladders, no less than seven working fire poles, and an indoor-outdoor kitchen. It incorporates sustainable elements like solar panels, greywater recycling, and no air conditioning. The house serves as a personal art gallery and studio showcasing Talbot's mixed-media work, including intricate beadwork and mosaics. The house is such a landmark in Austin that Mr. Talbot offers periodic house tours, and we were so fortunate to be able to take one. In true Austin fashion, Casa Neverlandia celebrated all things quirky, creative, and just a little bit bonkers, reminding us why this city’s “weird” reputation is so well-deserved. As we drove back to our 320-square-foot reality, we were inspired to add a little more color, a little more whimsy, and maybe just one fire pole to our lives.

Atop the Four-Story Tree House behind Casa Neverlandia Overlooking Austin

Judy, Morgan, Josh, Steven, and Artist Robert Talbot, in Front of Casa Neverlandia

Mr.Talbot in Front of Alter of Fire

Reflecting on our time in Austin, we are reminded of the profound value that family connections and shared experiences bring, especially as our children have grown and life’s chapters continue to unfold. Exploring new places together, embracing local traditions, and discovering the unexpected has enriched our journey and deepened our bonds. These adventures serve as a gentle nudge to savor each moment and cherish the laughter, stories, and memories that we create along the way. For families of any age, travel remains a wonderful way to rekindle togetherness and celebrate the enduring spirit of love and discovery. And so, with full stomachs, happy hearts, and stories we’ll never forget, we close out another chapter, as we tell… the Rest of the Story.