"The Lone Star State"

Welcome to Texas

Texas/Oklahoma border on I-35
December 27, 2005

As soon as you enter Texas, something just feels different. I'm not sure how to explain it, but unlike most states, Texas has an identity and an attitude. I think it comes from Texans being aware of their history and recognizing Texas was an independent republic for some time. Not does the Lone Start state have a personality, the state is massive. During my drive from Oklahoma to San Antonio, I drove through Dallas, Waco and Austin along the way; I never even made it to Houston, El Paso, Galveston or Laredo. However, I was crushed to learn that the phrase "Don't Mess with Texas" initially referred to an anti-littering campaign.

Just like Texas, this sign is huge. Taking this picture was somewhat tricky, since it located on a curve just after the Red River bridge. I was a little nervous pulling off on a curve, but there was a large shoulder with the grass matted down from people doing the same thing as me. I was somewhat surprised to see the mention of George W. Bush on the sign, since his father, as well as Lyndon Johnson, also called Texas home. I will say that the use of the state flag was a good one, since it is one of my favorites and is prominently flown all over the state.

Welcome to Austin

December 29, 2005

Austin really has a vibrant atmosphere, since it combines both a college town with the big-city feel associated with the capital. I'm not sure why exactly, but during the four times I drove in and around Austin (all at different times of day), traffic was a mess. You can tell right away that Texas was once part of Mexico based on the abundant southwestern architecture throughout Austin. The University of Texas has a nice campus, and I visited a week before the national championship showdown with USC, so the town was anxiously awaiting a Longhorn victory. It is also home to the Lyndon Johnson library, which is worth a visit.

The capitol is impressive, since it has a similar architecture as the U.S. Capitol, yet the dark brown exterior is appropriate for the desert setting. This picture is actually from the back, since the building is located on a hill with a tree-lined sidewalk leading up to the steps, making a decent shot of the front impossible. While it didn't provide a good photo opportunity, the grounds were very nice. I was surprised to see about 10 Texas state troopers patrolling the grounds, since I wouldn't think there was too much of a security risk when the legislature was in recess.

Miscellaneous Texas Symbols

State Route Sign

License Plate

Seal

Quarter