One thing that Austin has a lot of is undeveloped green space. Barton Creek, Shoal Creek, Bull Creek, etc. are some of the more popular greenbelts that cut through the heart of the city. In fact, the green spaces are the heart of the city. In addition to the lively music and vibrant art scenes, Austin is known for its "outdoorsy" citizenry. Every road is shared with avid cyclists, trails are always full of runners, the numerous surrounding rivers and lakes are frequented by kayakers, canoers, fisherman, etc. This is an OUTSIDE city. Walnut Creek isn't far from our side of town, actually less than 2 miles from home. It has a playground, baseball field, municipal swimming pool, and about 15 miles of trail. It's a smaller version of the larger trail system, but its our latest discovery and quite the little treasure.
Originally I was going to go out to this park by myself for a long trail run, but then I thought the dogs and family might enjoy it too, and then it turned into inviting our friends along for an afternoon adventure. The sky was cloudy and the temperature screamed, "Autumn is here! Get outside." I'll definitely be back to this place for a run as I begin to prepare for the half marathon in San Antonio, but I think we'll also be out here as a family as well, especially during the summer. I am curious about the pool.
Texas fall wildflowers and prickly pear cactus. Despite common misperceptions, Texas has lots of vegetation, including trees. It just looks different.
Sharing a snack.They were squirting the juice out of the grapes inside their mouth.
They found this extremely entertaining.
"Look Mama, that's where the dragons live." He was pointing to a small alcove on the other side of the creek. I love his imagination. These days there are bears, sharks, and dragons to battle around every bend.
Three little boys in the tall Texas grass. Milo had to wear his mama's hoodie after taking a dip in the creek. Fortunately, we were more than half way back to our vehicles where his parents had an extra change of clothes. He looked like a small wizard running around the woods in his mama's hoodie, so his parents called him the "Magenta Wizard," which is perfect for his magical personality. We love our friends.
3 comments:
Hahahaha...love the Magenta Wizard. :) And this post really makes me wanna come and visit Austin!!!! It's been far too long, such a lovely and lively city.
so jealous of your outdoor space. Nothing here. :) Great post!
lovin that cactus photo!
Post a Comment