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The picture shows the engraving on the elevator doors at the Texas State capitol in Austin. It serves as an example for a state, not known for its under'state'ment, that proudly showcases its pride and patriotism, even in the unlikeliest of places. And even though I still do not quite understand how a state can be run on a biannual five-month legislative period, it must be undying love for their cities, communities and their country that makes it possible.

Signs of patriotism, whether displayed by a soldier proudly wearing his uniform around Sea World, or by an emblem on an elevator door, make me grateful to be on the path to citizenship of this country. As a permanent resident and German citizen, this patriotism, undoubtedly the lifeblood of the state of Texas, is something I am not used to, but am glad to be a participant of.

This was especially obvious as we returned from our brief visit to Mexico, walking back across the Rio Grande, over the bridge to the United States. Being granted access to the country as a permanent resident was an enormous relief and a reminder of the fleeting privileges, oftentimes taken for granted.

San Antonio

San Antonio has definitely earned its rightful place among my personal U.S. must-sees. The famed Riverwalkm with its venetian flair, beautiful buildings and European charmm comes as a great surprise in this 'Texan style' city. It is hard to capture the mood in words and my phone camera does not do justice, so no picture is posted. But, check it out on the web: River Walk

San Antonio hosted the world's fair during the middle of the 20th century and it is another example of a city that is still profiting from the investment in architecutre and infrastructure created for the fair. The Tower of the Americas, the fair's icon and San Antonio's Eiffel Tower, still boasts the best views of the city and offers delicious Mango Mojitos. Definitely skip the charge to go to the observation deck and enjoy a drink at the bar.

See World opening day. Curious that the park opens at 10 a.m. but none of the attractions, shows, or food locations are open until 11 a.m. Also, somewhat of a disappointment that Sea World no longer offers free beer tastings due to the In-bev corporate takeover. But Shamu is Shamu and Believe has the same wonderful soundtrack as Sea World Orlando's. It was great to 'sea' the ultra-motivated team members enjoying the guest traffic on opening day, even though we were almost blown away under our wind advisory. Of course, we had our own great season start as the front row passengers on the first train at the Steel Eel.

You know you woke up in Texas if....

The worst BBQ in Texas

Rudy's BBQ sits unassumingly behind a shell gas station, nestled into Austin's green belt. In fact, it is more or less built into the store of the gas station. But the location and the non-descriptive sign do no justice to this BBQ place that's a sensation with Austin Yelp.ers.
The staff was so friendly and offered Brisket samples left and right. Check it out Rudy's.
The baby-back ribs far exceeded their Ruby Tuesday counterparts I'm used to at home. But, arguably the most exciting feature was an automated hand washing machine. This "hand jacuzzi' annihilated all traces of BBQ sauce in under ten seconds. Hand-washing machine.

Enjoying some seafood and wine in the middle of the whole foods
flagship store

Partying in the shadow of the capitol

historic landmark

Austin is such an outdoor community, it is even reflected in the sites that make it on the national register of historic places. Whereas in Michigan, one may find a historic stretch of freeway or a super sized 'historic' tire, Austin has the states oldest pool. Check it out: Deep Eddy's
Even though downsized, whether or not due to the economy, Austinites enjoyed a refresher in the sparkling (a.k.a. freezing) water.
Clearly not up to the challenge, I soaked up some sun and reminisced about the Austin botanical gardens. Akin to the general lifestyle, even the gardening culture has none of the Prussian attitude one might find in a European garden, as the landscaping was very unobtrusive. Perfect for an afternoon stroll. Check it out: Botanical Garden

Austin

I'm sitting at Epoch Cafe. Check it out epochcoffee
I'm surrounded by hippies on macbooks. At least, what meets the definition of a hippie back home. I think they blend right in to the Austin establishment though.

Yesterday, we walked around South Congress and, across the street from a cupcake-selling van, I found paradise. Check it out san jose hotel
Intimate bungalows under shaded trees, surrounding a lapis lazuli-blue pool. A green oasis on a dusty strip. The gate was open, and I was drawn in. Even the staff, in their crisp white uniforms, seemed to be of the opinion, they are the guardians of paradise. Definitely a secret to share with the one you love.

Seeing as the Doctor warned me to refrain from sudden movements, we decided to enjoy magic hour on a cliff, overlooking the Colorado river. Guardrails are for losers anyways.

Day One

I'm at the clinic. Austin regional clinic Far South to be exact. The waiting room is as brown as all of Austin, where even in the dead of winter, the grass is burned from the sun.
Earlier today we took a walk around the neighborhood. Walking through the streets, past hip-high cacti, we kick up dust. The surroundings seem organic, more earthen than at home in Michigan. There's less distinction between nature and man-made.

At the clinic, the Doctor tells me I have benign positional vertigo, making my body feel like it's drunk. He said a tiny granulate in my ear got dislodged and now my brain has to recalibrate. It would take a few days. He said to avoid sudden movements.