We’ve made a few day trips to Galveston over the last week or two. I love to go early in the morning on the week days when the only folks around are the locals that also like to rise early. Lambert and I ride our bicycles through the historic streets and look at the stately homes as well as the old shanties that have so much potential. I follow a couple on Instagram that are working house by house to restore 1900 Galveston. I love what they are doing and we often look for their home rennos when we ride. I can imagine what it must have been like way back then. It was a booming port city with sea merchants and exporters along with the wealthy lawyers and bankers. Extravagant homes were built with grand ballrooms, and large porches. I never tire of touring the Moody mansion. I learn something new on every visit. I’m so intrigued by the huge solid pocket doors and the floor to ceiling windows. I love a good butlers pantry and Mrs. Moody had one of the finest. Many of the old buildings are still in use and very much the same. as they were in 1900. Flowers are blooming and folks are still working in their gardens. I feel summer looming, soon our flowers will be all shriveled up and our lawns will be crunchy. This past winter I photographed a tree artist that sculpted many of the trees that were damaged by past hurricanes and made them into beautiful works of art. I admire his work and we enjoy finding new sculptures when we visit the island. Visitors can pick up a tour map and stop at each site to view each original piece. There are so many wonderful sites to see in Galveston, from art galleries to historic mansions. Much of the island is still shut down, but lucky for me Rudy and Paco’s is partially open. We’re going to celebrate my birthday with several friends this weekend. I have a few favorite restaurants in Galveston, but I love the steak at Rudy& Paco’s. You must visit if you like fresh seafood and steaks with a South American flare. It’s a wonderful treat for a special occasion. Libbie and I are continuing our zoom nights with friends and I’m busy with house projects this week. I stayed up late each night last week to document the May Moon and it did not disappoint.On Thursday night I caught it just as it peeked through our tall pine trees. They made the perfect frame. Lambert’s mom came for Sunday lunch on Mother’s Day and we all jumped in the pool. My dip was short lived but I did it, so it counts! Lambert smoked a whole chicken on the Green Egg and I made homemade mac & cheese and roasted veggies. Libbie helped me make a lemon pound cake. We tried a new recipe, but I think I like Pioneer Woman’s better. We are finally in the last week of home school and I sure hope I’m not their teacher next year! These last few weeks have seemed like an eternity. We have an end of year mini vacation planned with friends and it looks like its going to happen. This is a much needed retreat. The kids have a ball, the moms are all signed up for massages and a spa day while the Dads will hit the golf course. I love this resort because it’s a place we can truly relax. We unpack our bags and never have to leave. We pack yummy snacks and enjoy delicious meals at the resort. The kids are at the age, we can turn them loose and check in throughout the day. This year it will be extra special. We’ve all been on lock down and haven’t treated ourselves for too long! I hope you all have something special planned when this world gets somewhat back to normal. Until then, wash your hands and love your neighbors!
Shirley.
shirleyshedid.com 