Austin

Our state capital made for the perfect "one-tank" trip.  We spent this Veteran's Day weekend in Austin, TX ( just over an hour away).  The most perfect weather allowed us a day out and about- first stop was the beautiful state capital building.  We toured the lawn-posing for pictures next to cannons, warriors, and cowboys of course!  We took the "dam tour" inside and all of us learned a thing or two about this great state.

looking up at the dome

Bowie Statue

Santa Ana Surrenders 

We then headed about 30 minutes out of town of Driftwood, TX.  The scenic drive through the hill country lead us to some of Texas' best BBQ- The Salt Lick Restaurant.  It's a happening place- live music, huge portions and even wine tasting of their very own vineyard. To say the least, it was good eating!    

After our meal we went back to town to Lady Bird Lake in the heart of the city.  Under the Congress Street bridge lives the world's largest urban bat colony in the world!!  Those bats were pretty amazing!  We saw 100 of thousands of bats and this is the off season- pretty cool even if you are not a bat enthusiast.  They come out right after sunset and man those little guys get right to work eating mosquitos and other insects from the lake.  There was a nice observation area for viewing as well as sunset bat cruises on the lake.  The bats bring in the crowds, at least 100 folks turned out along with Team Haines.  

Haines Boys 

They are small and hard to see
but those lil specks (or black cloud) are thousands of bats!!!!

We called it a night and went to the hotel for some R&R.  The next morning we were up and at Ikea right at opening.  We had a goal for the day- to get Samuel a big boy bed.  And even the most on target shoppers can get sidetracked and spend allllllll day at that place:)  We met our goal and found many other "must haves" including meatballs for AB.  She cleaned her plate and we cleaned our pocketbooks!  It was a fully loaded car ride home!  Memories made!  Happy Chickens!  Big boy bed!

Swedish Meatballs