“Semper Gumby” (always flexible)

Computer issues have plagued us for the past couple weeks.  But Gary has persevered and spent hours both reading and online “talking” with the experts, and now we seem to be back to “internet normal”.

While traveling across TX to FL, we were basically moving daily east around, or through, stormy weather.  Perhaps, next time there is a strong El Nino effect off the Pacific, we will reconsider a long winter trip!  This time we were fortunate to not be in the midst of a strong storm front!

We did spend a couple of nights at Buckhorn Lake RV Resort (Kerrville, TX) – a great place for a longer stopover some day to tour the TX hill country.

We could view the Buckhorn Lake RV’s private club section across the river from our site.  Usage of TX hill country stone was evident and beautiful with the various waterfalls.

This park is set up for RV group events and was definitely decorated for the holidays.

Texas sized, tile-covered, barbecue grill

Arriving at our planned family holiday meeting place (Topsail Hill Preserve State Park) we found more wet conditions, did some grocery shopping and got settled in before my son Eric, the grandkids Josh and Jesse, and Eric’s aunt Susan arrived on the 26^th.  They had arranged cottage rentals close to the campground.

The park’s secluded white, sand beach (typical of the Gulf Coast) was a bit windy, but we managed to check it out a couple days and do some shelling – note to all, this is not really a great shelling location!

 With the storm surges and high winds, we didn’t see anyone challenge the “red flag” and try to swim!

 The storm front before Christmas had brought in dozens of sea cucumbers with the tides and currents. 

Working as a docent at the AZ-Sonoran Desert Museum and interpreting tide pools inhabitants like the sea cucumbers came in handy as we studied these creatures that are relatives of the more commonly seen Sea Stars.

Walking down one of the many trails in the park, we arrived at one of the two large dune lakes in the park.  Watching the sunset there was a perfect end to a great family day.

Gary had a great time with his new camera taking “Florida” (aka, green habitats) photos at the park’s ponds full of lily pads – not a common (if ever) sight in Arizona!

 We also did some other exploring in the area, which I will save for the next post.