Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine: San Marcos, Texas

Posted on August 8, 2013 by Nicki

Just around the corner from Purgatory Creek Park, and it was nice and cool inside.

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

The atmosphere was simple but nice.

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

It appeared to be a family operated business.

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

I had a beef noodle dish…

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Andrew Leggett

Andrew had a curry…

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Andrew Leggett

The food was scrumptious…

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

The price was very agreeable…

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Andrew Leggett

And a very kitschy bog roll in the men’s room.

7-2013

San Marcos, Texas

Posted on August 7, 2013 by Nicki

Depending on your interest, San Marcos is known for its outlet malls- the University- or the spring fed river and 850 acres of natural areas.

Purgatory Creek Park Photo by Nicki Hurd

A sinkhole along the greenbelt caught our attention.

Purgatory Creek Park Photo by Nicki Hurd

It was bloody hot….

Purgatory Creek Natural Area Purgatory Creek Park Photo by Andrew Leggett

without sufficient shade…

Purgatory Creek Natural Area Purgatory Creek Park Photo by Andrew Leggett

an interesting bridge…

Purgatory Creek Natural Area Photo by Nicki Hurd

but we did not last long…

Purgatory Creek Natural Area Photo by Andrew Leggett

gave up and went to lunch….

Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine Photo by Nicki Hurd

at Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine…a good choice.

7-2013

San Marcos River: San Marcos, Texas

Posted on August 7, 2013 by Nicki

The river here is spring fed with clear water in most parts…making it a big attraction for fishing, boaters, tubers, and those that just want to float unencumbered.

San Marcos River Photo by Nicki Hurd

San Marcos river stretches for 75 miles and hundred of springs flowing into it keep it from drying up.

San Marcos River Photo by Nicki Hurd

It offers festive sections, serene quiet time, and a home to a few endangered species in the Aquarena Springs.

San Marcos River Photo by Nicki Hurd

The river water, a constant 72º felt wonderful, and a lovely variety of trees; anaqua, cottonwoods, mesquite, pecans, and sycamores shade the river and beyond.

San Marcos River Photo by Nicki Hurd

Although Andrews kayak was full of water after going through a rapid… and he sank down a long section instead of floating…it was a great adventure. We look forward to exploring more of the beautiful river.

Gruene River Grill: Gruene, Texas

Posted on August 5, 2013 by Nicki

Hand-shaken martinis were delightful, the food tasty, and we had a view of the Guadalupe River from our table inside.

http://pspective.com/travel/?tag=gristmill-river-restaurant-bar

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

It has seating outside, but we optioned to stay in the air conditioning this time.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

A tad bit more expensive than the Gristmill, but with the rustic and relaxed feel of Gruene.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

7-2013

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar: Gruene, Texas

Posted on August 5, 2013 by Nicki

Below the Gruene Water Tower is the Gristmill, a historical landmark; formerly a cotton gin that processed the crops of the local farmers until 1922.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

It is always busy but the wait is never too long … and the beer garden under the oak trees has plenty of seats.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Nicki Hurd

The food is nice and the drinks are delicious!

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

We always sit among the trees on the multi-level terrace facing the Guadapule River.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Nicki Hurd

The company is invariably good.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Nicki Hurd

There are several great eateries in Gruene, but stopping here quickly became our tradition.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Nicki Hurd

7-2013

Landa Park: New Braunfels, Texas

Posted on August 4, 2013 by Nicki

Watching the duck with ducklings float across the lake was the start of our adventure at the park.

Landa Park Photo by Andrew Leggett

It has a spring fed pool that wasn’t opened yet.

Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea)
Landa Park Photo by Andrew Leggett

We spotted this heron just around the boathouse at the lake..

There were many lovely birds enjoying the park.

Landa Park

After cycling around we hopped on the train.

I think we sank the train (mini-train) car down to the tracks.

Landa Park Photo by Nicki Hurd

Most riders were wee ones but we enjoyed it just the same.

Landa Park Photo by Andrew Leggett

Our sending off host encouraged us to come back soon.

7-2013

Gruene Apple B&B: Gruene Texas

Posted on August 4, 2013 by Nicki

The Breakfast was as delicious as the perfectly ripe Gruene Apple.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

It is not a historical inn but still charming and Gruene. A gourmet breakfast of more than you ever need to eat is presented by the Inn keepers, the family that build it.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

The kitchen is beautiful, and the room adjoining it looks over the back garden that leads to the river.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

The B&B has a nice balance of being serene but fun.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

Just steps from the town square, and on the Guadalupe river, makes it a perfect location.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

It is set up for adults only, allowing it to be quiet but still fun.

Gruene Apple B &B Photo by Nicki Hurd

The bottom floor has a movie theater and game room…

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

and also a sun room that faces the garden at the back over the river. The staff leave at 8:00pm and the first time we stayed here I went out to the car at night and did not take my room key (which also opens the front door) or mobile….luckily, there was someone playing in the game room that let me in. 😉

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

It has 14 rooms that are themed. Mimi’s Attic was available. We booked late and were happy to get one that had a balcony facing the river.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

Mimi’s is a bit festive for us…

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

but the Inn is well maintained and relaxing.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

It has a library.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

A pianola playing cues you that the complimentary wine is served in the lobby.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

We enjoyed our wine on the Lanai and look forward to the next time.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

7-2013

Gruene, Texas

Posted on August 3, 2013 by Nicki

Gruene is on the National Register of Historical Places just at the edge of New Braunfels. Founded in 1845 by a German immigrant called Ernst Gruene.

Gruene Mansion Inn Photo by Andrew Leggett

Ernst and his family built their home and many of the first buildings in Gruene . The Gruene Mansion was his son Henry’s house.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

We decided to visit for July 4th. Generally we are reluctant to venture out for the busy holiday but Gruene was an excellent choice for us; a great location, only one hour down the interstate from Austin, although, we took a little longer on the country roads from San Marcos after floating down the San Marcos River on kayaks.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

The family used a variety of architectural styles, and their constructions included the Gristmill, formally a cotton gin before it burned down, now functioning as a favorite restaurant of many, including us, and the Gruene Hall, still standing and maintaining its purpose as the local dance hall.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar Photo by Andrew Leggett

The family and Gruene flourished, then struggled, but no unhappy ghosts linger here. It has returned to being a vibrant place. It has a historical but relaxed and easy feel to it… touristy without being too busy.

Since I first found Gruene myself, I stop in any chance I get when traveling by. We always eat at the Gristmill and stop at Winery on the Gruene to pick up a couple of bottles to support the local business.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

This time our first meal was at Gruene River Grill. It was very nice, not as busy as the Gristmill, a bit more expensive but not a problem for us, family friendly so not necessarily quieter…. and we ordered too much. Lovely space outside to recover in after.

Gruene River Grill Photo by Andrew Leggett

This was our second time staying at the Gruene Apple B&B.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Andrew Leggett

From the pool area we were able to see the New Braunfels fireworks. It was nice to relax and watch while avoiding the crowds and traveling.

New Braunfels Fireworks from The Gruene Apple B&B

The Gruene Apple is right on the edge of the town square…steps away but quieter and it is only for couples. We booked late but were lucky, Mimi’s Attic (the rooms have themes) a room with a balcony that faces the Guadalupe River was available.

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

After a nights sleep we had a delicious breakfast and ventured to Landa Park in New Braunfels.

Landa Park New Braunfels Photo by Nicki Hurd

Made our way around by bicycle and train. The conductor did not seem to mind that our car’s bottom was sinking and scraping the tracks.

Landa Park New Braunfels Photo by Andrew Leggett

Beautiful birds were posing throughout the park.

Landa Park New Braunfels Photo by Andrew Leggett

After returning to the Gruene Apple…

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

we were greeted by an equally enchanting creature..

Gruene Apple B&B Photo by Nicki Hurd

7-4-2013

Possum Kingdom Lake: Graford, Texas

Posted on June 3, 2013 by Nicki

The Cliffs Resort on the Lake Front was a nice stop for us on or way to Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

The Cliffs Resort on Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Andrew Leggett

The drive from Austin on HWY 183 was pleasant. Mostly two lane highway filled with lengthy green grass and wildflowers with an occasional burnt tree standing among them making an interesting contrast. We wondered if they had been burned in controlled fires.

The Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

Our corner room at the inn was nice. It was lovely to eye the lake while perched on our balcony 200 feet about the water with a panoramic view. Well worth it to get a lake view room.

The Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

I was told the lake is 10 feet low this year, which is not surprising for Texas, a drought- ridden state. Bicycling during the day did not work out. It was sunny and in the 90°s during our visit. We tried the PK hike and bike trail but did not last long, and optioned to ride around the golf course in the evening. Another time of year perhaps.

The Cliffs Resort on Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Andrew Leggett

Meals at Cliffs Chaparral Grille were nice and quiet, as we were nearly the only ones there. The food was good but not exceptional.

The Chaparral Grille at the Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

We ate at Selina’s on the peninsula. We were desperate for a/c after trying a ride. It felt good to be inside but the food was average Tex-Mex.

Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Nicki Hurd

The drive around the lake was pleasant.

Possum Kingdom Lake Photo by Nicki Hurd

There was no shade around the lake to escape in after a swim so we took advantage of the pools at the Cliffs, which were nice.

The Cliffs Resort Photo by Andrew Leggett

To get some relief from the heat, it seems you would need to be out on a boat to make full use of the lake. The marina has a beach but we did not stay without shade to hover in.

The marina at the Cliffs Resort Photo by Nicki Hurd

We look forward to exploring the trails another time of year.

May 2013

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Indiahoma, Medicine Park Oklahoma

Posted on May 28, 2013 by Nicki

Where the buffalo roam…

Bison, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Andrew Leggett

It was the hottest day of the year so far, but still a great visit. The American Bison (Bison bison) was near extinction before being rescued and brought here around the early 1900’s. It is North American’s largest land mammal.

Bison, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Andrew Leggett

The bulls can weigh 2,000lbs and the cows half of that. All descendants are from the small number brought here.

We were greeted by a mix of Longhorns and Bison as we entered the refuge, lazing about and enjoy the grass.

Bison, Wichita MountainsWildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The reserve caters for their munching several grass species. Seeing all of the mixed grasses was a treat coming from Austin Texas, where green grasses are not seen unless imported.

Longhorn Cattle, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The Texas Longhorn Cattle were brought to preserve the culture of its breed.

Longhorn Cattle, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

Gone from the area were the native American Elk (Cervus elaphus). They were brought back from the Rocky mountains and can be seen in the early morning or evening. The bull’s mating sounds can be heard in September. Elk are herbivores with teeth known as “whistlers” which are made of the only true North American ivory. We did not see or hear them during this visit, nor did we see the White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) that make the refuge their home.

We climbed Mt Scott…in our Kia Sedona to gander all around the mountains and down at Medicine Park just outside of the refuge, and where we chose to stay.

Mt Scott, Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

The prairie is sheltered by the two granite mountain ranges, the Wichita mountains, with a rich geological history. Our visit to Prairie Town was a huge success, as we were able to watch several Blacktail Prairie Dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) go about their business.

Prairie Dogs Wichita Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

On the rock outcroppings we spotted the eastern collared lizard (Crotaphytus collaris).

Eastern Collared Lizard, Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge
Photo by Nicki Hurd

May 2013

perspectives on travel

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Prik Nam Pla Thai Cuisine: San Marcos, Texas

Just around the corner from Purgatory Creek Park, and it was nice and cool inside.

San Marcos, Texas

Depending on your interest, San Marcos is known for its outlet malls- the University- or the spring fed river and 850 acres of natural areas.

San Marcos River: San Marcos, Texas

The river here is spring fed with clear water in most parts…making it a big attraction for fishing, boaters, tubers, and those that just want to float unencumbered.

Gruene River Grill: Gruene, Texas

Hand-shaken martinis were delightful, the food tasty, and we had a view of the Guadalupe River from our table inside.

Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar: Gruene, Texas

Below the Gruene Water Tower is the Gristmill, a historical landmark; formerly a cotton gin that processed the crops of the local farmers until 1922.

Landa Park: New Braunfels, Texas

Watching the duck with ducklings float across the lake was the start of our adventure at the park.

Gruene Apple B&B: Gruene Texas

The Breakfast was as delicious as the perfectly ripe Gruene Apple.

Gruene, Texas

Gruene is on the National Register of Historical Places just at the edge of New Braunfels. Founded in 1845 by a German immigrant called Ernst Gruene.

Possum Kingdom Lake: Graford, Texas

The Cliffs Resort on the Lake Front was a nice stop for us on or way to Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Indiahoma, Medicine Park Oklahoma

Where the buffalo roam…