Davis Mountains

(Community Matters) Super day exploring the Davis Mountains area while listening to an Al Green anthology.

Hwy from Marfa to Ft. Davis

Balmorhea State Park

Built by the Civil Conservation Corps in the 1930s, Balmorhea State Park was built around San Soloman Springs, which sits at the foot of the Davis Mountains. They say the water stays 72F – 76F. Was perfect for my quick dip. [the spring discharges between 22 and 28 million gallons of water each day – the main Barton Spring (Parthenia), approximately 31 million- the other three apprx 3 million when not dry]

view from site of Otto Struve Telescope @ McDonald Observatory

I didn’t realize the McDonald Observatory (@ 6,800 ft) was also built in the 1930’s, after an $800k donation from Wm McDonald, a banker from Paris (TX).

the Hobby-Eberly Telescope from far

the Hobby-Eberly Telescope from closer

the Hobby-Eberly Telescope from closest

Ron Cox

Passing the Working Brooms shop in Alpine, just had to stop in. Met Ron who sold me a handmade broom especially for reaching cobwebs.

big guy with big truck
member, Texas Big Game Hunters

along Skyline Road in Davis Mountains State Park

I so loved driving, big skies and long horizons. Listening to Al Green, especially to How Can You Mend a Broken Heart, I was transported to my teens in Houston. We attended quincineras growing up, probably from 12 to 16. Hanging with my cousins, meeting girls, dancing, living a very rich life. Didn’t really occur to us we weren’t financially rich since we were so wealthy in family, friends and experience.

Was reminded I need unobstructed views of the horizon and listening to good music now and then to remember, to connect dots in my head. Also reminds me I do much better brainstorming and creating when I stand and pace.