interlude
We took a break from the stresses of work and family and spent a day at the lake. We sat on the deck at a cabin in the woods, watching the hummingbirds and being calmed by the water down below.
For lunch we drove to Strawn where we found a old-fashioned bar and grill. Tricia ate a plate of chicken livers and I chose tacos. Most of the locals were drinking beer but it was too early for me. I made a note to come back at night sometime. Down the street we found a really neat soap factory. Isn't it great that someone can make a living selling soap in a tiny west Texas town? I picked out the "manly man" scent.
Along the way we passed Loving Valley. Oliver Loving was the man whose life was the basis for the character that Robert Duvall played in Lonesome Dove. This was his ranch. It is hard to tell in this photo but those tiny black dots in the field are cattle.
I love this countryside. It was hard to leave it.
Posted by Bill Hopkins on September 2, 2004 08:55 PMbeautiful.
Posted by: jenn at September 2, 2004 08:40 PMThat particular shot doesn't look too much different than the rolling hills of upstate NY where I live. But I'm sure if I could see the trees and other plants better it would look different. After all, the cows look like dots. Up here they would be dairy cattle. I bet they're beef cattle down there.
Posted by: Kathy at September 3, 2004 07:46 AMWas it actually called 'Manly Man' or is that just your description?
That's some huge sky in that picture. What a fantastic way to de-stress and spend some time. I hope you both feel rejuvenated.
Posted by: Leslie at September 3, 2004 11:39 AM"Manly Man" was the actual name of the soap. It is a patchouli blend - reminds me of the 60s. I didn't notice any "girlie man" soap though.
Yes, the cows are all beef cattle in that valley. Interestingly Loving pioneered the cattle drives to the north because in Texas he mostly could sell the cattle only for the hides and tallow. They were throwing the meat away because they could not transport it.
Posted by: bill at September 3, 2004 12:35 PMpretty country! Is this close to where you live?
Posted by: mary lou at September 3, 2004 01:04 PMIt looks like a beautiful place. I am so glad you and Tricia were able to get away - you both deserved it. Hurrah for Tricia - I love chicken livers.
Posted by: Glenda at September 3, 2004 05:24 PMSounds bucolic. I'm checking out the Ancient Art Soap website. I thought I was the only one who nibbled on chicken livers. Glad you enjoyed yourselves.
Posted by: the orchidophile at September 4, 2004 04:41 PM