As much as I love being a Louisiana gal, it really distresses me every September and October when the rest of the country is reveling in apple-picking and spiced cider and the glorious colors of autumn leaves and we are here, enjoying some truly lovely weather, but essentially missing out on all of autumn's glory.
When major life changes that took place over the past week made it possible for us to plan a getaway this week, the choice of San Antonio seemed a no-brainer. The kids have been enthralled with our studies of the Alamo and are thrilled to go see it in person. It's not a bad drive from here, Greg's sister is along the way, and Greg's aunt and uncle and his cousin who was the best man in our wedding live in San Antonio. We've been itching for the first camping trip of the year, and there is a nearby state park where Greg took the boys last year that he has been dying for me to see. Voila! Trip planned. A few days in San Antonio and then five days camping here.
I was excited, truly. But ever since last year's trek up the East Coast , I've prayed we'd get the chance to experience fall's splendor every year. This trip is likely to be the only one of the season, so I was a little sad--until this morning, when my darling husband served me my coffee, sat me on the sofa with the laptop, and showed me this list of nearby attractions. We began clicking on links, eagerly discussing all the fun things we could do and see with our adventurous band of brothers, but I've got to tell you, when he clicked on this link, my heart skipped a beat. God in heaven, the Maker of me, knew just how much my soul needed that flood of beauty, so He showed us where to find. And find it we will. We've got a day of hiking there all planned out. And for an added bonus, an afternoon spent here, enjoying nature's autumn bounty.
God is also quite aware that there are some rough and rugged boys in this bunch, so He made sure there was plenty of fun for them too. All that along with lots of time talking by the fire and gazing up a the stars will make for some amazing family time.
And even though it's technically vacation, we'll be "studying" history, geography, astronomy, literature, nature and science, physical education, and, of course, our faith, (The Lord even sent us a couple of cool field trips in that area) which we take with us wherever we go. I'll never cease to wonder at how easily real life begets real learning. And for that, for the life God gave us, and His intimate presence in it, I am ever grateful.
Now we're off to find some fall. Photos when we return!












