Bandera, Texas (as we saw it)

From the OST (Old Spanish Trail) Cafe and the ‘spit and whittle’ corner (that’s what Don calls it when we see old locals sitting on a bench on the sidewalk, talking, and we did), we walked about a block and across the street to the Bandera Visitor’s Bureau.  Would you believe that above the door knob was a sign that said, “turn?”  Seriously?

The lady and gentleman inside were very nice and gave us a map and told us a couple of places we might like to visit.  We thanked them and left, taking a few pictures outside before going on down the street.

That is a big pair of boots.

Old cowboys may spit their tobacco juice or put out their hand rolled cigarettes here.

Grandma can spit her snuff juice here.

I’m tempted to tell you that this is a replica of a covered wagon, but isn’t it obvious?

The gentleman at the visitor center had suggested that we had to see the General Store, complete with soda fountain and counter.

As we walked through the store several interesting items caught our eyes.  Don said he needed this sign:

We thought the picture on this mug was funny.

And then I found the same picture on a t-shirt. Don said, “Here, Baby, here’s hat for ya!”  And a mirror!  The hat just has “LaVon” written all over it, doesn’t it?

Nice toothpick.  Well, what did you expect?  We just ate breakfast and the bacon got in my teeth. (Is that more information than you needed?)

After bringing the hats to my attention, suddenly Don is acting like he’s never seen me before in his life.  Can’t imagine why?  (I do see a hint of amusement on his face, however.  Mission accomplished.)

I love this.

Cowgirl, here’s your sign.

Not calling any names, but you know if this is your sign.

There was a large collection of cross art in the General Store.

Somewhat on the bizarre side are these.

Out on the sidewalk again, the next door was the entrance to the Silver Dollar Saloon and Dance Hall under the General Store.

Patrons must descend these steps to get to the saloon.  I never have been too fond of caves.

However, I walked down the stairs far enough to take a picture of the interior.  That’s sawdust on the dance floor.

Back to the sunlight, we headed back to the truck and I went into The Cowboy Store and asked, “Where’s your restroom?”  The cute cowgirl behind the cash register said, “Right over there (pointing); it’s the door with the ‘employees only’ sign.”  I kind of chuckled and glanced back at her and she grinned and said, “We’ll put you to work when you come out.”  I liked her.  Fortunately, when I emerged, she was busy with a customer, so I escaped.  I really wouldn’t mind working there, though… I love the smell of boots and saddles.

Marquis in the parking lot of the Cowboy Store said, “20% off on a LOT”

My shot of the Bandera County Courthouse.

Driving around we saw so many houses and buildings that are from earlier times.

St. Stanislaus Roman Catholic Parish (second oldest Polish church in America) had its beginning in 1855 when 16 immigrant families from Poland landed at Indianola, Texas. They then proceeded to Bandera to settle. This was only six weeks after the settling of the first Polish Parish in the United States at Panna Maria, Texas.

In 1874, a convent was built from limestone, housing the nuns who taught the children and serving as their school. This building, bearing a Texas Historical Plaque, is now used as a museum to display the precious memorabilia from the original Polish families, their descendants, and from the early church. 

Don is reading the plaque.

Crepe Myrtle on the church property.

The city deer have very little fear of humans.  We stopped for me to take this picture and she wasn’t the least concerned.  She’s actually a little hard to find, but look at the car… she’s on the left side.

Before leaving Bandera, we found a fruit/veggie/flower stand.  We brought home these Sunburst squash and have no idea how to cook them.  I will let you know what Don decided to do with them.  We were told that they have a very buttery flavor.  Can’t wait.

The Mandevilla was beautiful.  Wish I had a place for one at the Q, but the deer would really appreciate them.

Name something that says “Summer Time” better than: