Wurstfest

Tonight was the opening night of "Wurstfest," New Braunfels' largest and most extravagant celebration of its German heritage. After living here for almost a year--and after having passed the "Wursthalle" in Landa Park on our way to swim many times over the past few months--we were really psyched to see Wurstfest at first hand. We were not disappointed. This annual celebration has now become the third-largest festival in Texas--after the State Fair in Dallas and Fiesta in San Antonio. Pretty good for little New Braunfels!

There are two cultural foci of Wurstfest--food and music. There were three German bands playing simultaneously in three different venues on the grounds and there were almost as many kinds of beer and sausage as you would find in Munich. The actual Wursthalle itself looks a lot like the Hofbrau Haus--no coincidence, I am sure.

We will definitely return for more of the "culture" during the ten-day run of Wurstfest.

Is the Drought Over?

The month of October is almost past, and a recent weather report (out of San Antonio) makes me wonder if our drought is over. So far in the month 11.9" of rain have fallen in San Antonio, so the total must be similar for us, 40 miles to the north. Does this mean our drought is over? We are now officially 1 inch short for the year. Last year at this time the region was 19 inches shy of the average rainfall! When we moved to this area, just a year ago November, everything was brown. Today everything is green, the rivers are flowing, and Canyon Lake is rapidly filling. Please let the life-giving rains continue!

It is officially fall--not by the calendar, but by the weather. We have had nights in the 50s (and even a couple of 40s) and daytime temperatures are usually in the 70s. Absolutely beautiful!

The critter pictured above effectively finished off my last cleome plant. I let him munch, since he was so accommodating as to pose for my pictures.

Texas Clay Festival

This past weekend was the famous "Texas Clay Festival," a ceramics fair and sale originated several years ago by local potters. Well known ceramic artists from throughout Texas are invited to attend and display their wares. I've always wanted to attend the Texas Clay Festival, and now I am located only five minutes away from the big event. My brother is invited to participate each year, and, owing to a recent accident, he needed help setting up the display and also manning the booth. N. and I along with friends Randy and Barbara from East Texas were a part of the event from set up to tear down. Now I know a lot more about the pottery business than ever before. (Hint: it is a lot of work!)

The weather was beautiful--bright blue skies, cool, crisp temperatures, and the crowds were impressive on both days. The pictures will give some idea of the fun atmosphere. I am already looking forward to next year!