It was a rainy morning last Wednesday but waking up knowing I'm headed to my first long trip. Not too far from my abode, but a great start to my traveling days. Jefferson, TX here I come. I fetched my rain jacket, loaded up the car and headed east. I was accompanied by my two travel companions Shelley and Doug. These people are so fun to be around. They really take care of me and make sure I experience everything possible that a Lil' tot can.
We got rolling about 1pm, fighting the pouring rain and rare heavy traffic at that time just to get out of Dallas. Once we reached the outskirts, the traffic lightened and the rain soon followed. Finally the rain stopped completely but the grey clouds prevailed only to leave us wondering if more rain approached.
I could tell we were definitely out of Dallas once the road narrowed and trees were more abundant. A smile grew from ear to ear knowing Jefferson was nearing. I was so excited to visit a historic town but the consistent sounds of the wind blowing and car rolling on the pavement made my eyes heavy. A nap lingers until we arrive.
Alas! I awaken to see an old Texaco gas station, unoccupied and looming with history. Stories of old Model T's stopping for full service assistance, which no longer exist in these parts unfortunately. I can visualize an older gentlemen sitting down reading headlines while waiting for the next customer to arrive. As he scans over the news a light breeze unravels the paper and he resets, straightening to the original position. The old hound snoozing away under the tenants chair and a little mouse curiously lingers through the loose trash.
Time has slowed to the speed of molasses.
We meandered through this town with history abound. My thoughts wondered as to how this town prospered with the speedy economy. As we entered into the downtown, my heart skipped while noticing the grand architecture of the old east. Victorian and colonial homes lined the streets with live oaks covering every inch of pavement. The town had a certain warmth welcoming all who were intrigued by the stories which could settle my excitement.
We made way forth to the Austin Cottages where we were headquartered. A quaint place with antiques filling the rooms. A musky smell lingered establishing the fact this place has an enriched past. My smile becomes more prevalent as we venture by foot, or peg leg, to the Riverport of the Southwest.
