Beauty in the eye of the beholder

I have been to some of the most beautiful places in the world, yet I cherish this as some of the most beautiful scenery of all of God's creation, the peaceful beauty of west Texas.  Few appreciate it like we west Texans do, but I believe Jesus might like it, because the terrain of his homeland is somewhat similar. Above is pictured the rare blooms of a purple sage bush. The shorter the trees and bushes, the bigger the sky!

This variety of cactus grows wild in western parts of Texas.

Well looky there, a few trees to provide shade for the horses!

 Gnarled trees seem to twist into the bright blue skies, standing the test of time and scorching heat with resilience.

The clear waters of the Nueces River...a welcome sight amidst the dry terrain.

Out west

As you know, for the next few months I am not in the Middle Kingdom, so the blog will detour and talk about what's going on where I am. 

I grew up in Texas and didn't realize until I moved away that Texas -- like everywhere else in the world -- has its own culture. Having been away for so long, I am finding it a bit fascinating to rediscover the culture on a Texas road trip. Here are some shots I took in a small town in the southwest part of the state. I love the modern take (a fresh coat of paint) on the old-style of living.

Main Street

Main Street again

Arches borrowed from the Mexican tradition

Lots and lots of red, white and blue

Day trip to Austin

My parents and I made a day trip to Austin on Monday so they could pick-up their grandson (my nephew) and have lunch with my brother and sister-in-law. After lunch I forced them to pose for a few snapshots. It was hot, so I could only get a few. 

More updates soon!