A quick trip to Waco and Salado revisited

A quick trip to Waco to meet my mom cleared any doubt in my mind that whatever navigation skills I have are from my paternal side.

It was a lovely day for a drive through the hill country and an opportunity to meet up with my mom is always welcome.  Waco is halfway for us, but oddly enough I arrived 30 minutes before her so I checked out a cute boutique full of mini stores called Spice Village – located downtown next to Ninfa’s.

I usually opt for Ninfa’s or Rudy’s when in Waco, but Collins Street Bakery has been on my list of places to try so I was happy to have my mom along to check out this little deli.  We didn’t try their famous fruitcake, but I can report they have a nice little soup/sandwich combo and they will give you a free cookie if you ask to try one.

Since my last trip to Salado was on a Sunday some of the stores were closed and I have intended to go back.  Today was a good reason to do just that.  If you need a break from I-35, Salado is a wonderful place to stop for a breather (Mom).

There are quite a few stores to check out on the main drag – Magnolia’s, Side by Side, Southern Comforts, etc etc

This looks like a place my mom and I would like

Horsefeathers was my favorite new find – they have a great shop located in a cute, little house with gifts and decor at very reasonable prices.

It’s been about 15 years ago that my friend Jessica’s mom told us chickens were in and  I think they are back (or maybe they never left)- I see them everywhere

I’d love to show you what I bought, but it is a gift for a friend with an upcoming birthday who I think may actually read this.  The picture of the sparrow is from Taylors.

I usually try to avoid I-35, but there are some really great places to stop along the way, if you have the time.

Can I also say, what is with wordpress changing their format constantly?  Is there a trick I don’t know to keep it from changing?

Road Trip: Salado, TX

Welcome to Salado a town that is “artfully yours” or as I would say “a welcome respite from I-35.”

About 45 minutes north of Austin you will spot an exit for Salado and most likely you will keep on going because you are on your way somewhere, but you will miss a great little town with lots to see.  Sunday afternoon is not the best time to visit if all you want to do is shop because quite a few of the shops are closed or close at 4:00, but it would make a great day trip any other day you can make it.

I present to you “Scenes of Salado:”

Antique Rose of Bell - beautiful antique furniture

What I thought was so nice about the shops in Salado is that the ones we visited were in old, renovated houses, which always makes me think of Trudy’s shop in “Steel Magnolias.”

Horsefeathers - not open, but came highly recommended by another merchant

And the houses were beautifully landscaped and set back in the trees

Splendors - childrens' clothing, home decor, kitchen supplies

In case you need a place to stay

An art installation that I can appreciate

A hot dog wishing he could go to the swimming hole

There were a few wineries in town and it looks like they have a good use for the empty bottles

Salado Visitor Bureau

Salado would make a great place for a girls’ weekend or a family reunion.  It is just too beautiful to not visit once…..or twice.  When I drive around the Hill Country  I often wonder, “why would anyone want to live anywhere else in Texas?”  And then I remember a sweet little girl named Lucy who just started saying “Assh-leee” and remember that North Central has its own selling points.

Here’s to finding beauty in each of the regions of Texas and to finding a way to visit each of them as often as possible 🙂