Amarillo By Morning

Touchdown this morning (Texas time) in the Lone Star State. We're off to our annual summer trip to Wheeler, Texas . . . population 1400 according to the 2000 census. I think it is closer to 5000 now.

As we flew low into our destination this morning, I peered out the window to what looked to be a patchwork quilt of different shades of brown. Where is the water? I'm used to palm trees, the closeness of water, green all around. It hasn't rained here in close to six months! Back to the brown quilt, it sounds drab but it's actually beautiful in its own way. Looking out over the vast flat farmland, I couldn't help but think about all the creativity that this place inspired. Yes, Wide Open Spaces did a lot for the Dixie Chicks but the same can be said for Howard Hughes, Woody Harrelson, Don Henley, Janis Joplin, ZZ Top, Carol Burnett, George Strait. And Buddy Holly -- the big man always likes to ask about that bit of trivia when mentioning his birthplace, Lubbock. And those that use their hands and minds in a more physical way - Nolan Ryan, Lance Armstrong, Tom Kite, Roger Staubach. OK, I admit it . . . I've been googling -- and drinking my new favorite drink, Orange Blossom martinis.

Anyway, my point is . . . some people, including me at times, may think this place is a little, for lack of a better word, stiffling. Yes, if you let it be. But it's also the perfect place to spark your creativity. What better is there to do? Target is not right around the corner. Your mind can't be stimulated by all the pretty things in the windows at the Town Center - besides, if you lived here, where would you wear that stuff?

Big things are happening tonight. My other half's family (notice I didn't say better half? Hey, I'm a good egg too!) is renting out the community pool tonight. Woo-hoo. That's a big deal here. They serve frozen pickle juice. Don't knock it 'til you've tried it, seriously. But better than all that . . . there is some kind of exhibition tonight with the World Champions of Extreme Sports. I repeat, EXTREME SPORTS. We saw them practicing today and all I can say is WOW. These boys are from Wheeler -- see, I told you about these wide, open spaces inspiring one thing or another.

I'll try to report back tomorrow, complete with pictures, on all the spectacularness. In a town of 5000 with no Target or Town Center, I shouldn't have a lack of time to give you a complete replay!

Comments

  1. God bless Texas...and for Pete's sake, don't Mess with Texas! Enjoy your trip!

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  2. If your rare bloom tee is still for sale.. I NEED it :) here's my email dlwb9883@aol.com

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