Dawdle Across Texas with Me – Episode 2

…

The Promenade in Fredericksburg.

When we visited last, I was in Valley Mills, Texas. I did not stop for one of those aromatic Mexican or Barbeque lunches. It had nothing to do with moral (or any other kind of) fiber. I had a limited amount of time, so I pressed on. I headed for Clifton along Highway 6. I think George W. Bush’s place is around here somewhere.

An old barn

Clifton showed up in twenty minutes and I reconnected with 219, headed for the sleepy village of Cranfill’s Gap. After the trip was over, I discovered my aunt Evelyn lives there, still. She is my late father’s eldest sister and a very sweet person. I shall make a note to try to find her on my next pass.

 St. Olaf's Kirk!

I detoured to revisit St. Olaf’s Kirk. You might recall I snapped a picture of the 1880s vintage church during deer season. (See “The Hunt.”) Then, cold air and overcast skies prevailed. This time, warm air and sunny skies were the order of the day. I wanted to get a better picture under brighter conditions.

Cottage in The Gap

Imagine my surprise when I arrived to find the church surrounded by workers, cranes and scaffolding. The white stucco façade was gone and the original-looking limestone exterior gleamed in the sun. I did not get the photo I wanted, but I am happy to have the old church returned to its historic appearance. In the fullness of time, I shall catch it gleaming in the sun, without the construction crews. It will be beautiful!

Scene in The Gap

Next, I cruised through “The Gap” toward Fairy, Texas. Even tinier, Fairy is the gateway to Hico, home of my stepmother, Marguerite. She has been ill and I have not seen her in awhile. Following the rural roads, I made my way to her door. She answered the bell and we had a long conversation. Now in her 90’s, she admits she has lost a step or two, but her wit is sharp and her disposition is sunny, particularly considering her recent health issues. I learned she went to the hospital with pneumonia and heart trouble. I was happy she recovered. I think she was, too. She has not met the youngest grandson. (My Bad) I pledged to bring Joshua for a short visit in the very near future.

When our conversation ended, I headed back the way I came, savoring the bright sun and mild temperature. I wanted to be off the highway before dark. I am not sure why. It may be I am getting old. Nah.

Highway, Trees and Bluebonnets

The winds picked up as I rode north. At one point, a gust pushed my ride hard toward the unpaved shoulder. I leaned into the wind and wondered if I could turn hard enough to keep off the loose gravel on the shoulder. I did not relish the idea of hitting gravel at speed in a hard turn. Nothing good would come of it. The gust died as suddenly as it began and the motorcycle headed sharply left, toward oncoming traffic. I hauled the bike upright and scampered back to the proper lane, missing the oncoming truck by two hundred yards. I think I saw the truck driver laughing as he sped by. No matter. I would laugh, too, after I got home.

Welcoming Evening Sky

The rest of the trip was tranquil. I arrived home before sunset, exhausted and exhilarated. I think I shall approach my next outing a little different. Next time, I plan to give in to more temptations to stop and see the sights; talk to more people. After all, there is more to touring than scenery and speed. We shall see.

...