Austin

McKinney Falls State Park is just south of Austin.  A former cattle ranch, it was given over for public use by its owner.  Like Monte Sano State Park on Huntsville, a short drive from downtown feels like a world away. 

Austin is a vibrant, gritty city that is growing faster than the infrastructure can support.  We saw a local news story today that addressed how local arts spaces are being impacted by rents going up 400%.  The arts are inherent to the culture of Austin and they are paying the price of the city's growth.

We've adjusted plans and have decided against heading toward Big Ben National Park.  We had a brief visit two years ago and had intended to visit for some back packing.  Instead we will visit Guadeloupe Peak National Park near El Paso.  The peak in this park is only accessible by foot and has a riparian ecosystem in the midst of West Texas.  Since this will be a new National Park visit for both of us, we've decided to make this change. 

Heavy rains are forecast for Austin tonight.  5-7 inches are predicted.  We've buttoned up and are hopefully ready.    Tomorrow is open bases upon weather.  Either bicycling or visits to indoor attractions in town.  Peaceful tonight as week 2 unfolds.