April 15th

On our last full day in Texas, Lauralyce, Emma and I took a drive out to our family ranch in Comfort. Texas has had a decent amount of rain over the past few months, so that, added to the fact that it is April, made for some really pretty country. Everything was green and the wildflowers were aplenty.

I've always said that I want Emma to be a part of the ranch as she grows up and to realize how lucky she is to have not only the land, but also all of the wonderful people, as part of her heritage. I wish we were able to go more often, and hopefully we will be able to do so as she gets older.

We ate lunch with the family at the same table that the family has used for over 100 years, and then my Great Uncle Robin took us on a ride out into the pastures to see the animals. Spring is birthing time for the cows, sheep and goats, and there were plenty of babies to be seen, including some goats that had been born minutes before we passed through.

Back at the house, Emma got to feed a calf named Chuckles with a large bottle of formula. She loved it! (Thanks Cousin Grant!) Luckily she didn't ask to bring Chuckles home with us.

On our way back to Austin, we met my dad and Peggy at my favorite barbeque restaurant, The Salt Lick, which is out in Driftwood, in the hill country outside of Austin. I try to make it to Salt Lick every time I'm in Austin, as it's really my only chance to have what I consider good Texas barbecue. Unfortunately, Emma hasn't acquired a taste for barbeque yet, although I'm confident that it's just a matter of time.

We had a great time in Texas and can't wait to go back!