Area Stories 3

February 03, 2007

Just me and my RV

She's kind of a pipsqueak in the world of monster houses on wheels, but at 22-feet and complete with her own stove and oven, my little rented Coachmen is all the recreational vehicle I could ask for on my week-and-a-half long road trip down the Texas coast.

Of course, I haven't driven her yet. But I'm sure it'll be fine. Just like I'm sure my RV park neighbors won't laugh at me when I struggle to back in straight to the sites where I stay along the way. Right?

Regardless, I'm definitely excited about going coastal and hitting all the exotic South Texas locations, from the hometown of Whataburger to the unofficial spring break capital of the country to the land of the winter Texans and the self-proclaimed "square dance capital of the world.''

It'll be just like Road Trip - with a touch of Golden Girls. And I'll be blogging, vlogging and taking pictures all along the way, and I'll be taking suggestions from you on what to do along the way. Should I go surfing or birdwatching? Should I visit the aquarium or the dog track? Should I stuff myself with fried shrimp or barbecue? Tell me what's next.

I'll also keep you up to date on life in the RV, from experiments with RV cuisine to how my mom, who plans to join me for part of the trip, and I fare in quarters that supposedly "sleep 6'' (read: sleep one).

Oh, yes, the places we will go.

Assuming I make it out of the parking lot Monday, I hope you'll join me for the ride.

Currently on my iPod: Pat Green, I Like Texas

Posted by Kristin Finan at 11:11 AM | Comments (7)

February 04, 2007

All packed up with someplace to go

I just finished packing for my Monday morning departure, and it was a process.
I'm wondering if my little RV will even have room for the bags and bags that are cluttering my living room -- I didn't even know I had this much stuff.

Included in these absolute necessities:
• The Roads of Texas atlas, a recent purchase called RVing Basics and US Weekly
• Fishing pole
• One pound bag of Reese's Pieces
• Two miniature decks of cards
• A straw cowboy hat
• A bicycle
• Sunscreen
• Frisbee
• Aviator sunglasses
• Shake 'n Pour Bisquick pancake mix (a Finan family camping tradition)

Granted, they may not seem like necessities, but they'll definitely make for a more enjoyable trip. Plus, I really don't know what to take to prepare for this adventure, since it feels like a hybrid of camping and moving into a new apartment. It's especially strange to bring along things like pots and pans (well, one all-purpose pot) and measuring cups. The whole concept of being able to cook on the road is still really foreign, although I do plan to test several road trip delicacies during my time in South Texas. If anyone has a good recipe that might be conducive to my RV's little stove, feel free to pass it along.

Also, thanks to everyone who's suggested places for me to stop along the way. I'm making a list of all the recommendations and will try to hit as many as I can. Once the trip gets started, I'll check back in and let you know what I've found. I'm excited!

Currently on my iPod: Nelly, Ride Wit Me

Posted by Kristin Finan at 11:55 PM | Comments (3)

February 05, 2007

Video: Ready to roll

Posted by Kristin Finan at 01:06 PM | Comments (1)

Finally from the road

I am officially writing from the road and happy to say so far, it's going well.
After a tentative first few minutes, I got the hang of driving this rig, which is just like driving a car except that it's shakier and you've got to take really wide turns. I have a sudden kinship with the drivers of 18-wheelers I used to curse -- I finally have an idea of what it takes to drive one of those things.

It couldn't be a more beautiful day for a trip down 35, and it's been exciting to see things like roadside pecan and honey stands along the way. One of the stands I saw said, "Free sample," so I stopped by and requested one.

Jake Hill, who in this picture is showing off not only his pecans but an autograph from cowboy and pecan enthusiast Joe Beaver, obliged and ended up talking me into buying more pecans than I know what to do with. Anyone have any good pecan recipes?

I also had the chance to check out the Tee Pee Motel in Wharton, where each room is its own tee-pee.

It had been closed for years until a local couple won $49 million in the lottery and decided to buy the town landmark and renovate it. It's a fun place to see and cheap, too -- rooms are only $52.50 a night.

I just finished up a late lunch at Hinze's Bar B Que in Wharton, one of the places recommended to me. It's to your left on U.S. 59 if you're driving down from Houston. As a recovering vegetarian, I sometimes doubt my ability to appreciate great barbecue, but having just polished off a platter of sliced beef, black-eyed peas and okra, I can definitely say it was delicious.

OK, time to hit the road again.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 03:11 PM | Comments (4)

February 06, 2007

First loved it, then lost it

This first night out was no walk in the park

It was probably naive to assume that just because I had a lovely first day out on this RV trip that the evening would follow suit.

Of course, that's what I did. About 7:30 p.m. this happy camper pulled up to an RV park, only to find that as a "late arrival" the gate had been locked. I was instructed to press a button and someone would be right down. A minute later, a nice man wearing shorts and a T-shirt appeared and escorted me into the office.
So far so good. I had made it through the gate and had already spotted a hot tub, a pool and some fun RV sites decorated in multi-colored strands of lights. He rung me up for the night -- $27 -- and I handed him my credit card. "Sorry, we don't accept credit cards." I rummaged through my purse for my checkbook, only to realize I hadn't packed it. Then I frantically rifled through my wallet, hoping money had magically appeared since the last time I checked. Nope, still just $21. "It's OK. If you're close, I'll just take that."

I was mortified about shorting the man, but even more mortified by the thought of having to back my RV up and go searching for an ATM, so I thanked him repeatedly as he rang me up. "Oh," I said, "Also, this is my first time driving and hooking up an RV, so..." "You might need some help?" he finished for me, surprisingly pleasant for someone who had just lost $6 in the exchange.

I followed him to my site, where he instructed me to get the power cord and water hose ready to attach the pump and outlet. The power cord was no problem, but I couldn't find the water hose anywhere. Together, we searched all of the exterior storage units, then I went in the RV, which was pitch black, to look for it. I fumbled for the light switch and accidently hit the generator switch, which responded with a growl. Then I hit another switch, which responded with a whirr -- the heater. Finally, I hit the right switch and looked through the inside of the RV. No hose to be found.

"I don't know where the hose is, but it's totally fine," I told my new friend. "I don't need water anyway." He looked concerned, but told me there were bathrooms and showers near the site if I needed them. "Great," I said. "Thanks so much." I could definitely handle a night without water, so I turned my attention to another matter -- my laptop.

I switched it on and opened up my e-mail, dismayed to find the park's wi-fi was not reaching to my site.

"No, no, no, no," I said, holding my laptop up in various positions in different parts of the RV looking for service. No luck. Living without water I could handle, but living without wi-fi? This really was roughing it.

I decided to brave the brisk evening air, which was decorated with gorgeous stars, and head toward the office. There reception was better, but I was cold, so I ventured into the swimming pool area, which was insulated by a giant clear plastic bubble. From a stone bench next to the pool is where this message was written.

Signed, fondly, the girl in the bubble.

Currently on my iPod: Devo, Whip It

Posted by Kristin Finan at 07:34 AM | Comments (10)

Video: Searching for Stone Cold Steve Austin

His WWE bio says he's from Victoria, although the people of nearby Edna claim him, too. Either way, wrestler Stone Cold Steve Austin has got to be the most famous person to come out of these parts in my lifetime. So I went in search of homages. Or least some fans.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 11:23 AM | Comments (2)

Feelin' good again

After calling my RV rental place this morning (yes, I was supposed to bring my own water hose, so I'll have to buy one today) the first item on the agenda was to head to Starbucks.

No, not for a cinnamon dolce latte, although they are delightful, but to try to find a stable Internet provider so I could post a blog entry.

Amazingly, Starbucks didn't have wi-fi either, so I decided to bid Victoria adieu and head down the road to check out Refugio.

Having just spent the morning here, I can say it has to be one of the nicest towns ever, like something out of Pleasantville. It's the kind of town where people stop you just to ask you about your RV or recommend local attractions. Plus Taquerias Guadalajara has some delicious breakfast tacos, should you get hungry.

During my visit, I checked out the Refugio County Museum and Our Lady of Refuge Church, pictured here.

A gorgeous church, it stands on the site of Mission de Nuestra Senora del Refugio, the last Spanish mission established in Texas. It's rich in history, and just a pretty place to walk around.

Oh, and heading out of town, be sure to stop by the Burger King, which features nice, strong wi-fi.

Currently on my iPod: Robert Earl Keen, Feelin' Good Again

Posted by Kristin Finan at 11:46 AM | Comments (4)

Video: At the Boiling Pot, the heat is on

Sure, this restaurant on the Rockport-Fulton border is known for great seafood, but just what are the secrets to its success? Find out as I taste test some spicy boils.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 07:15 PM | Comments (4)

February 07, 2007

Greetings from Goose Island

Hello from the Big Tree, which is, having seen it, indeed very big.
At more than 1,000 years old, 44-feet tall and with a 35-foot trunk circumference, this Goose Island State Park landmark has long drawn visitors.

Although park officials say the tree recently lost its spot as the State Champion Live Oak, with its long branches winding up like tentacles, it is still definitely a sight to see.
 

In the words of winter Texan Pat Mason, who bicycled the park with her husband Larry, "Whenever you can see anything in the area that's pretty incredible to see, you should. You should see what nature has to offer."
Well said, Pat.

Below Nassau Bay residents Ken and Dot Short, who were vacationing with their grandson, Connor McKinnis, discuss a (freshly fileted) catch of the day with Arkansas native Dolly Wood.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 12:16 AM | Comments (0)

Conversations in Corpus -- getting to know the neighbors

Two minutes in, I already knew more about my neighbors at the RV park than the ones I live next to most of the year at my apartment complex in Houston.

"The only thing we don't play," said neighbor Lawrence when I walked into "game night" in the park rec room, "is strip poker."

Fair enough, I said. I don't play that either.

An interesting aspect of RV park life is that you're expected to be there by about 6 p.m., and once you've checked in and gotten hooked up, leaving becomes pretty impractical. Your best bet, as far as I've been able to ascertain, is to make friends to spend the evenings with.

Which is why last night I attended game night. Here, clockwise from left is the whole gang -- me, Lawrence, Elise, Bob, Claire, Guy and Wanda -- just before I schooled most of them in a dice game they taught me called Farkel.

Every night these winter Texans gather for "happy hour" (although no one was drinking, as far as I could tell) in the rec room and play Farkel, ping-pong, and cards on Harley-Davidson decks, tunes like Cheryl Lynn's Got to be Real playing in the background.

At some point the gang asked me how my trip was going and I casually mentioned that I didn't have a water hose -- in the rush to get to the RV park by 6 p.m. I forgot to buy one. Lawrence offered his extra, but although I secretly wished I could accept to avoid having to track down a Walmart, I politely declined.

Later, when I returned to my RV, I found that he had already hooked up his extra hose for me and water was flowing through my faucets. Sometimes, it sure is good to have friends.

I'll leave you with a shot of Corpus Christi at sunset. It's beautiful here -- the air smells like the ocean.

Currently on my iPod: Cheryl Lynn, Got to be Real

Posted by Kristin Finan at 12:51 AM | Comments (2)

Whata-view in Corpus

Hi, welcome to Whataburger. Would you like fries with that view?

When I found out that Corpus Christi is the hometown of the beloved Whataburger chain, I had to stop by its flagship restaurant at 121 N. Shoreline Blvd. to check it out.

It's two stories and right next to the water, but don't worry -- they still cook up all the same greasy favorites.

What's area manager Larry Lardin's favorite?

"In 12 years, you eat everything so often you have to rotate around," he said. "I guess heart of hearts the old double meat, double cheese. Can't beat it."

As for store bestsellers, he said chicken strips and the original Whataburger top the charts.

"It's not viewed as fast food in Texas," he said. "I think the people of Texas have pride for it."

In a totally unrelated matter, Corpus Christi's citywide wi-fi, while spotty in places, rocks, as do the lattes at Agua Java, 320-C William St.

The first Whataburger is long gone, but Corpus still lays claim to its flagship location.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 10:30 AM | Comments (1)

Under the sea in Corpus

Yah, me neither. But I learned that and many other interesting facts this afternoon on my visit to the Texas State Aquarium. Even though it's a well-known tourist attraction, it was lots of fun to see. So was the USS Lexington, another tourist favorite that deserves its popularity.

I started at the aquarium and would like to give a shoutout to the seahorses and the sea turtles in particular, which were both endlessly entertaining to watch. These dolphins I snapped were pretty cool, too.

I also liked this sign you see here, which reads, "These otters are wild animals and can inflict severe and painful bite wounds."

Remind me never to try to pet one.

After the aquarium I headed to the USS Lexington, which was the kind of experience that's so interesting you forget it's educational.

It was pretty moving to wander the flight deck, pictured below, and lower decks and think about the history of the aircraft carrier, which was commissioned in 1943 and is said to have served longer and set more records than any other carrier in U.S. naval history.

It holds another cool claim as well -- it was the first ship in U.S. naval history to have women stationed aboard as crew members.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 02:27 PM | Comments (0)

February 08, 2007

Video: Adventures with Mom at the dog track

My mom, Jeanne, and I had never been to a greyhound race, so we decided to visit the Corpus Christi Dog Track to check out the scene. After getting the basics from the regulars we placed our bets. Did we win big? Check out the video.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 01:03 AM | Comments (2)

Confessions from Port A

I think my mom, who came down from Austin to spend a couple of days with me, is underwhelmed by my little RV. She hasn't said that directly, but it's just the impression I got when she saw it and nonchalantly suggested we get a hotel.

She was, however, impressed by my RV neighbors, who stopped her as she pulled up to my site for the first time to ask, "Are you Kristin's mom?"

I do have a confession, though. I took her up on her hotel offer. Not because I'm tired of the RV, but because this morning we were scheduled to leave on a very early deep sea fishing trip and wanted to save ourselves the hour drive from the RV park in Corpus.

I know, it's a little weak, but it makes sense. And if you think I'm regretting my delicious oysters from Virginia's in Port Aransas (pictured below), the cool ocean breeze from the porch at the Tarpon Inn and all this open space to put my stuff, you're sadly mistaken.

The only thing I'm kind of regretting right now is signing up for this 12-hour deep sea excursion, which is suddenly seeming a little too early and a little too long for my likes.

As you're reading this from your office cubicle, I'm on the boat. In the best of worlds, I'm reeling in a giant fish and munching on a hamburger. In the worst of worlds, I'm clutching a packet of Dramamine and lying sick on a table in the snack bar. Either way, I'll soon be back at my RV, reporting all the details of my day at sea.

Currently on my iPod: Bobby Darin, Beyond the Sea

Posted by Kristin Finan at 01:10 AM | Comments (5)

Snapper fishing -- not such a snap

So we made it back safe and sound from our 12-hour odyssey. I'll be back later with a full report on the day's events, in addition to a rundown of places you guys recommended that I've already visited. I'll also respond to some comments. Until then, want to try to guess which fish are mine?

Oh, and a treat: Sunset view from the boat:

Posted by Kristin Finan at 06:48 PM | Comments (0)

RV update and quick thank you

Just to let everyone know, I am back in the RV, and I'm already getting a sample of what it would be like to live here with another person (Mom). We're OK, but I'm definitely feeling the space contraints. Plus the refrigerator is too cold, so some Diet Cokes just exploded, and the lights are flickering for some reason. Fun times.

Before I look back on a very long day or do anything else, I just wanted to say a quick thanks to everyone who has posted suggestions of places for me to check out during the trip. Most of the blog has been about the places and activities that you guys suggested, including the Corpus Christi Dog Track, the Texas State Aquarium, the USS Lexington, Goose Island State Park, Refugio's Our Lady of Refuge, Hinze's Bar-B-Que, the Boiling Pot and deep sea fishing. I take your suggestions seriously, so keep 'em coming.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 10:32 PM | Comments (0)

Journal of a day at sea

On Thursday Mom and I headed out to the depths of the ocean on Port Aransas' Scat Cat to go deep sea fishing for snapper. The 12-hour adventure was a test of mind, body and stomach, but ultimately lots of fun. Here's how it went, from start to finish:

5:25 a.m.
Alarm goes off. Mom's first words: "I don't know if I can do this."

6:15 a.m.
We get to the boat and learn that, as the last to arrive, we get last pick of fishing spots. Our fellow fisherpeople look gruff and burly and have come with their own poles. We are intimidated.

6:30 a.m.
The boat pushes off. It will be three to four hours until we arrive at the place where we are going to fish.

7:30 a.m.
We step outside to get some air. The brisk winds blow against us and we see dolphins in the water. On the way back to our seats I see the sign pictured below, which says, "Please use outside rail for sea-sickness" and decide to take some Dramamine.

8 a.m.
I eavesdrop on the guy behind me, whose very random topics of interest include which fast food restaurants have the best coffee (McDonald's), his anniversary date (Nov. 14) and his blood type (O negative).

8:30 a.m.
In my boredom I start thinking about water-related movies and contemplate addressing everyone with pirate-related vernacular (Ahoy! Yar! Shiver me timbers!) until I notice a deckhand with a steely glare that actually looks like a real pirate and abandon the project. I also try to work the phrase "Holy mackerel" into conversation without success.

10 a.m.
We spot blocks of frozen fish intended to be our bait, shown below.

10:33 a.m.
We find fishing poles and begin to fish.

11 a.m.
I catch a tiny hardhead catfish. We throw it back.

12:05 p.m.
I decide to switch from frozen squid to a little fish called capelin, modeled here as earrings.

1 p.m.
Everyone around us is reeling in giant, gorgeous snappers.

1:30 p.m.
Mom catches one, pictured below.

2:30 p.m.
Despite advice from nearly everyone on-deck, I cannot for the life of me catch a snapper. The captain tells us to reel 'em in -- we're headed back to shore -- and I am empty-handed.

6:30 p.m.
We arrive back at Port Aransas, and everyone displays their catches on the dock. I watch, determined not to see this as a failure. I'll just call myself a staunch supporter of catch and release.

Currently on my iPod: The Shins, Sea Legs

Posted by Kristin Finan at 11:45 PM | Comments (2)

February 09, 2007

Video: Fish tales

Up before dawn for this?

Posted by Kristin Finan at 08:32 AM | Comments (0)

Back on the road southbound

So down here a predominant convenience store chain is Stripes, and I've been seeing these in every one I go in.

It's a 3-foot-tall rose for $9.99 that talks, saying things like, "I love you more than words can express," in a husky male voice. I definitely recommend getting one for your valentine -- or as your valentine.

Stripes also sells these beauties, which say "Sasquatch Xing":

Today Mom and I are heading south again and started the day off at Joe Cotten's Barbecue in Robstown, just outside of Corpus. To those who recommended this place, THANK YOU. It was absolutely delicious. Co-owner Cecil Cotten and manager Tommy Rodriguez, pictured below, and cook Mario Ybarra were glad to give us a full tour.

The restaurant was founded by Cecil's dad Joe almost 60 years ago and is known for its smoky meats, special barbecue sauce and fresh sides. Make sure you bring cash though -- no credit cards accepted.

After Joe Cotten's we stopped by the recommended King Ranch Saddle Shop. Could someone please buy these boots for me?

If you end up at the Saddle Shop, be sure to check out Harrel's Kingsville Pharmacy across the street. It's got great gifts and a real soda fountain in the back.

OK, back to the road.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 12:30 PM | Comments (1)

February 10, 2007

Delving into South Padre

I am now officially in South Padre and excited to see what it has to offer. The drive in from Corpus was smooth and colorful, from the vibrant roadside fruit stands to the view from the causeway. While I was driving I kept seeing signs for an "Ocelot Festival" nearby, and although I don't know what an Ocelot Festival entails, I think I might have to check it out.

As I was driving in, a man in the car next to me motioned for me to roll down the window and told me he liked my RV. "What's it get for gas mileage?" he said. I couldn't remember, to which he replied something about me being a typical woman for not knowing it. Please remind me to find out what it is immediately.

Also while on the road yesterday we got a chance to check out King's Inn restaurant at Loyola Beach, which also came highly recommended from some of you guys.

Having been there, it's easy to see why. The seafood was super fresh, and the atmosphere right on the water was very serene.

As for South Padre so far, it's going well, although I've been a little surprised by how quiet it is. I'm excited to get a chance to wander the island and hopefully dig up something adventurous to do. I'll keep you posted.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 02:01 AM | Comments (2)

Video: In search of Padre nightlife

Posted by Kristin Finan at 09:47 AM | Comments (4)

Blowin' in the wind

This morning Mom is heading back to Austin, but I've got a new visitor: My husband, Patrick, has dropped in for the weekend. I thought maybe we could grab a nice breakfast outside, go for a romantic stroll on the beach. Evidently, Mother Nature had a different agenda.

Since about 6 a.m. it's been pouring. One guy tied plastic bags around his feet to make it through the parking lot, and this guy almost got blown away:

Even the lobby of Mom's hotel flooded a little:

Guess we'd better do something indoors. Shopping maybe? OK, twist my arm.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 10:14 AM | Comments (0)

Run for the border

I think we made a mistake on the way to Nuevo Progreso, Mexico, when we passed up a furniture store with a sign offering free margaritas. I'm pretty sure debates like birch versus mahogany and leopard print versus leather would be considerably more entertaining after some frozen beverages, and I could probably use an end table for the RV.

But since my husband Patrick and I were determined to make the most of the dreary, cold day, we sailed past, paid $5 to park in a lot and walked over the bridge into Nuevo Progreso.

The view as we crossed over:
 

Kristin Finan : Chronicle

Once we crossed into Nuevo Progreso, the visual and olfactory sensations were even more intense, with tortilla factories and tiny taquerias, plus street vendors peddling cups of a corn mixture called elote (shown below), candied nuts and trinkets greeting us.
 

Kristin Finan : Chronicle

Kristin Finan : Chronicle

Here's how it went:

Me: How much?
Vendor: $10.
Me: What about $9?
Vendor: OK.
Me: What about $8?
Vendor: No, $9.
Me: OK.

As we walked, we found more and more objects of interest. My favorite was a shop that had commemorative buttons celebrating the Chicago Bulls championship in 1996 AND the Dallas Cowboys' Super Bowl victory the same year. Not sure why the store was stuck in a time warp, or why they would think someone would actually want a mug shaped like a woman's body part, but it was definitely an interesting place.

We ended the visit at Arturo's, a restaurant/bar that we knew was a total tourist trap but still felt compelled to try. Between the delicious nachos and the multitudes of very excited tourists trying on recently purchased masks a la Nacho Libre, the place was a good call.

As an aside, we spent a little time on the outskirts of the touristy area, which was a neat experience. I particularly liked this mural:
 

Kristin Finan : Chronicle

Currently on my iPod: Chingy, Holidae In

Posted by Kristin Finan at 09:07 PM | Comments (1)

February 11, 2007

Taste of the familiar

If you're ever in Harlingen, you've got to stop by this great little coffee shop. It's got delicious lattes and tasty snacks and a bunch of cute little coffee-related items you can purchase. It's called Starbucks.

Sorry, that was dumb. But Patrick and I did have to stop in at a Starbucks in Harlingen this morning on the way to the airport, where I was dropping him off. I hadn't had Starbucks since Tuesday, and I'd missed it. The rest of the day, however, I'm back to all local, all the time.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 12:04 PM | Comments (2)

February 12, 2007

Battles and pirates, ice cream and kites

Yesterday I spent the afternoon wandering around South Texas and found some pretty interesting things. Here are some highlights:

• Palo Alto Battlefield
This battlefield was the site of the first major battle between Mexican and U.S. forces. There's a half-mile-long path you can walk to explore the area, pictured below, and a lot of interesting history.

• Seven Seas gift shop in Los Fresnos
Stuffed with any type of souvenir you could want, Seven Seas also has cool pirate mannequins spread throughout the store. This one reminded me of a celebrity, but I couldn't put my finger on who. Any ideas?

• Port Isabel
I had a great time just walking around this area, which features the historic lighthouse, quaint shops and a nice ice cream parlor called Lighthouse Ice Cream, pictured below.

• The beach at South Padre
Yesterday afternoon it occurred to me that although this entire adventure has been on the coast, I hadn't spent any time just sitting by the beach. Even though the sand was damp and the water looked like chocolate milk, it was still refreshing to sit outside and watch the waves roll in. Here's a picture of Fred, a winter Texan from Minnesota, flying his kite on the beach.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 12:14 AM | Comments (3)

Chow time at the RV park

For some reason I'm still avoiding the kitchen, pictured below.

I've come to terms with most other aspects of RV life, but the kitchen is foreign to me.

Last night, I decided to tackle this problem by cooking myself dinner. I wanted to make something with local ingredients, so I dropped by a farmer's market for tomatoes, onions, pictured below, and garlic.

Then I hit a seafood stand for some fresh shrimp. I decided to try to make shrimp pasta with bruschetta, something I've made dozens of times but never in an RV.

First, I sifted through the very limited supplies I brought -- one pot, one bowl, two forks, a spatula and some Thanksgiving-themed paper plates -- and bought other necessities, such as bread, oil and tomato sauce (you didn't think I was ambitious enough to make my own, did you)?

Then, I hooked up the outside water to my hose. Having done this a few other times, I thought it would be a piece of cake, but I quickly learned I had not tightened the hose enough when I turned the water on, and it sprayed all over my face. Not a good start to this meal.

Next, I pulled out the shrimp and was about to de-vein them when I noticed they smelled sketchy -- rotten, actually. I checked the fridge -- it had been off since I bought them about an hour ago. Still, I peeled, de-veined and washed them, then threw them on the stove -- which lit with a match on the first try -- hoping the smell would go away.

I was excited to watch the shrimp cooking until a painfully loud beeping started up in the RV. It was the fire alarm, and it was freaking out. Frantic, I turned off the stove, threw open the nearest window and started fanning air in front of the alarm. It finally stopped, and I realized that the stove had a fan above it I definitely should have been using.

Once the shrimp were cooked, I surveyed them. There were definitely done, but they had a look to them I didn't like. The more I stared at these tricky fellows, the more I became certain they would make me ill.

I decided to trash the shrimp, but the rest of the meal was coming along nicely. After the noodles finished, I used the spatula to strain them, then heated the sauce and chopped the tomatoes and onions.

I couldn't figure out a way to toast the bread, so I just threw the tomato and onion mix on it and called it bruschetta. All in all, between the pasta and the bruschetta, pictured below, it was a decent dinner, and I even went back for seconds.

I was feeling pretty good about the whole situation until I went to wash dishes and saw that the water had somehow turned off again. I went outside to see what was wrong but couldn't figure it out, so I went inside, threw some bottled water on all the dishes and called it a night. Guess I'm not an RV expert just yet.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 12:24 AM | Comments (0)

Video: A little hunk of Elvis in South Texas

A visit to Little Graceland in Los Fresnos:

Posted by Kristin Finan at 09:56 AM | Comments (0)

Venturing out with a flock of birders

This morning I got up at 5:30 a.m. and drove two hours so I could be at Bentsen-Rio Grande State Park, one of the best birding areas in the state, for an 8:15 a.m. birdwatching walk.

I would have needed about three more cups of coffee to match the enthusiasm of my fellow birders.

"Do I need to rent binoculars?" I asked as my group headed toward the trail with our guide, Jerry Brite.

"I think you might be lost without them," interjected avid birder Eileen, pictured below, who was taking the tour with her husband.

I rented binoculars for $3 and rushed out to meet the group. The morning was bright and fresh, and it felt nice to be up, despite my fatigue. A minute later Eileen and the rest of the group stopped cold, having spotted a bird that I hadn't seen. Eileen pulled out a birding book.

"Birders never travel without books," she said. "It keeps us honest."

As we walked, we spotted birds like the golden-fronted woodpecker, the kiskadee and the green jay, which is like a rock star in these parts because it is a beautiful green shade and is native to the area.

"Aren't they beautiful?" Eileen whispered. I nodded -- they were.

After a few more steps Jerry pointed to a spot on the ground covered in feathers. Likely a kill zone, he said -- a hawk probably attacked something.

Here's a picture of Jerry, on the prowl for birds:

The more we walked, the more I learned. According to Jerry, good birders can tell what species a bird is by its calls. Once you've spotted 800 species -- no easy feat -- you're considered a member of an unofficial "800 club" of birders.

I wondered if I could get interested in birding to the point where I could join the 800 club. Here's me with my binoculars: Does it look like a fit?

I looked around at my group. Eileen was tense, hot on the trail of a swallow. One guy was proudly wearing a vest covered in patches of different birds. Another lady was yelling, "Where?! Where?" to her husband, trying to find the bird he had just seen. And someone else was talking about a birding campout that he called "a thrill."

OK, so I'm not quite there yet. But it was a fun way to spend the morning.

Currently on my iPod: Counting Crows, Four White Stallions

Posted by Kristin Finan at 02:20 PM | Comments (0)

February 13, 2007

Lots of good stuff in South Texas? Bee-lieve it!

Yesterday afternoon I treated myself to another random sampling of South Texas attractions. There was some very fun stuff, including:

• The Hidalgo Bee

In October 1990, the first group of killer bees entered the United States through Hidalgo, Texas. Instead of bemoaning this fact or even simply playing it down, Hidalgo constructed this humongous bee, which it calls "the world's largest killer bee." They proudly displayed it right next to City Hall.

There's something endlessly fascinating about a town that would use something as frightening as the entrance of killer bees and turn it into a marketing strategy/source of pride. At first I thought it was weird, but now I kind of appreciate the moxie.

• La Plaza Mall

I had heard La Plaza Mall was a good place to check out, and on my way home from the bee I happened to drive right by. I didn't want to neglect my journalistic duties and keep you from knowing the scoop, so I parked the RV in the packed lot and decided to investigate. My verdict: Two thumbs up (and one wallet exhausted). I particularly liked this security guard on Segway:

• La Lomita Chapel in Mission

La Lomita (which means "the little hill") is the historical site of a former mission and ranch used to support priests and their charities. I arrived to the chapel right at dusk, which was a beautiful time to see it:

• Pepe's on the River Bar and Grill

I was hesitant to recommend Pepe's because while I was at La Lomita its music -- the "chicken dance," to be exact -- shattered what had been a perfect evening calm. However, after checking it out, the place is pretty fun, with live music, a friendly crowd and a spot right on the river. Here's a picture from the deck at sunset:

After nine days on the road, I'm finally turning my attention toward home. I've absolutely loved being on the road, although I think my little RV and I could use a break from each other. I'm tired of her cramped quarters, and she's tired of my stuff being everywhere. Either way, I'm excited to see what's in store for this last leg of my South Texas tour. I'll keep you posted.

Currently on my iPod: Dean Martin, Houston

Posted by Kristin Finan at 08:32 AM | Comments (3)

Video: Your casa no es my casa

These RVs are big. They're wide. They have HDTV.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 11:19 AM | Comments (2)

February 14, 2007

The long road home

I spent all day yesterday taking in the cows, fast-food restaurants, historical markers, winding roads and tiny roadside shops that make up the drive from the Rio Grande Valley to Houston. Although the trip was long, there was something wonderful about being able to roll down the windows, turn up the radio (yes, it's perfectly OK -- although not particularly trendy -- to jam out in an RV) and just drive, stopping anywhere and everywhere along the way. Again, there was a lot to see:

I began the morning at the Museum of South Texas History. Located in Edinburg, the museum had lots of good stuff, including an exhibit about the jails of South Texas -- part of the museum is actually located in the old Hidalgo County jail -- and an exhibit about the Rio Grande river that included this replica of a mammoth skeleton:

The museum also had a lot of great photo opportunities, including a display of clothes and uniforms modeled after South Texas' history that visitors are welcome to try on. I didn't have anyone with me to force into a costume, so I tried on some armor myself and tried to make a stern face, pictured below.

No trip to the valley would be complete without a stop at one of the ubiquitous fruit stands bursting with vibrant greens, yellows and oranges. I bought a huge bag of oranges, below, for $5.

Once I got out of the valley area, it seemed like 281 just kept going and going. Here's a picture of the road I got to know really well.

Once I got on 59, I stopped at the Valero in Beeville for gas and was thrilled to find this:

It's a gas pump with an adjoining Dairy Queen menu and call button, as in, "I'd like a Hungerbuster and a Blizzard with my unleaded please." Plus the menu offered a Blizzard for $1.89 with the purchase of 10 gallons or more of gas. Score! I had to try it.

Unfortunately, when I pressed the button, it didn't work, so I walked inside to request my discounted Blizzard.

"Those machines don't even work," my cashier said blankly. I wanted to leave in protest, but I was now completely craving a Blizzard, so I ordered one. Here's a picture of it:

It was very tasty and a great roadtrip snack, although I'm sure it would have been even better had it been delivered right to the pump.

My final stop of the day was in Goliad, which I've always wanted to visit because of its significance in Texas history, specifically the Texas revolution. Because I got there after 5 p.m. many of the buildings had been locked, but it was still incredible to see places like the Presidio La Bahia, the site of the longest siege in Texas military history, pictured below.

After Goliad, I made a straight shot to Houston, where I arrived late last night. The air was much chillier than it was in the valley, but it was good to see the bright lights of the city after spending so many nights in the quiet, still dark.

Later today I'll check back in with the skinny on the trials and tribulations I faced on the road, as well as some advice for potential travelers and RVers. Hopefully you can learn from some of the mistakes I made. I sure did.

Currently on my iPod: Mason Jennings, Keepin It Real

Posted by Kristin Finan at 01:09 AM | Comments (2)

Video: "Like Disneyland for naked people"

Investigating a clothing-optional RV park.

Posted by Kristin Finan at 03:28 PM | Comments (0)

Parting is such sweet sorrow

This morning I had to return my little RV to her home at Spring-Cypress RVs. Here's a picture of her at her happiest -- on the beach on South Padre Island.

Letting her go, especially on a day like Valentine's, was a sad affair. I'm really going to miss our long drives down the beach, our adventures into uncharted territory and our quiet nights at home. I think it's safe to say she'll miss them, too.

But, alas, our time is up, and so instead of wallowing in sorrow, I'd like to outline some of the lessons that I learned from her, and from my trip in general down the Texas coast.

First, about operating an RV:

I'll start with some tips on actually operating an RV. Prior to this trip I'd never driven anything like an RV, so I was pretty intimidated by the idea of going on a road trip in one. Everyone said after about 20 minutes on the road you get the hang of it, and they were right. Once I was on the highway, I felt pretty at home. Some pointers, though, for a successful adventure:

• Before I left, my dad advised, "Remember to double check your mirrors every time you back up. Or even better, don't back up." That's really good advice. In an RV you can't see anything behind you, so if you have to back in somewhere, make sure someone is helping you.

• Start small. I rented the smallest RV I could find, which was a good call, because even though it seemed big, it could have been much worse.

• Take your time on the road. The more cautious you are, the better.

• The ceilings of RVs can be a little low, so watch your head. I must have bumped mine about a million times.

• If you have a pet (aside from maybe a goldfish), take it along on your trip. I found myself wishing I had a dog with me for company, and a lot of RV parks are really pet-friendly.

On RV life:

RV parks really aren't anything like camping. Most RV parks have pools, showers, laundry facilities, lounges and organized activities that make it pretty fun. And from my experience, the people were great.

• If you get into a bind or don't know how to operate something, ask your neighbors. Most of the people I met in my parks were winter Texans, and they were all open, friendly and extremely eager to help with anything I needed. They also have a pretty good idea of things to see in the nearby areas, so be sure to chat with them.

• Try to make reservations at RV parks ahead of time, as many of them fill up weeks or even months prior. I found all of the parks where I stayed online and had a positive experience at all of them.

• Just because they say they have wi-fi doesn't mean they do. All of the parks where I stayed promised wi-fi access, and only one delivered. McDonald's, Burger King and Holiday Inn all proved dependable, though.

• If you decide you don't want to hook up your water and sewage hose, most RV parks also have full bathroom and shower facilities. Because most RVers don't use them, they're in great condition.

General thoughts on traveling:

• Try to take recommendations seriously. I was treated to so many wonderful sights thanks to the recommendations you all made. If someone takes the time to recommend something, it probably really is worth a look.

• If you see something that looks cool, stop. It doesn't take the much time to drop by an interesting attraction to see if it's worth your time, and you can find some of the neatest people and places that way.

• Even if you don't have anyone to go with, you should still go! I only spent about a third of my trip with other people -- the rest of it I was by myself. Be safe about it, of course -- tell people where you plan to stay, take a cell phone and make sure the parks where you stay are reputable -- but don't let fear keep you from an amazing experience.

That's all I can think of for now, but feel free to e-mail me at kristin.finan@chron.com with questions, ideas or comments. I'm so grateful to all of you who have been reading -- your thoughts and insight are what made this experience so memorable.

Oh, and a side note to my editors: I like being in the office and everything, but it'd probably be a good idea to put a Chronicle writer on the road full-time to check out various destinations and blog about them. I'm sure it'd be a tough job, but in the interest of reader service, I'll go ahead and volunteer to be that person. What do you say?

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