Spring in Texas, at the Ranch

The day after the party was Easter, and the bunny found us at the ranch!  The kids actually walked by their baskets (unseen) to make their way in for one of the famous ranch Chicken-in-the-Barnyard breakfasts.

After they had satisfied their appetites, Owen finally noticed the baskets in the corner. Lots of candy and books this year.  Thanks Easter Bunny!

Spring is a beautiful time at the ranch.  The dogwoods were blooming in full, and everything was green and new again. 

As usual, the kids enjoyed going on hikes, exploring, and riding in the mule.

Owen finally realized that the ranch is kind of like one big sandbox.  He even recalled seeing an old, metal dump truck on the back porch that belonged to Uncle Ken.  That and a couple of laundry scoops, and the kids were set for an afternoon.

The front porch is also fun.  We got in a few beer/wine/peanut socials, time on the swing set, and apparently tended to a chore or two.

Of course, the kids got to spend some good time with family and had lots of story readers.

After a few days, we had to leave for the Houston leg of the trip, but we stopped around Brenham for lunch, ice cream, and bluebonnets with Granna and Grandad.  We took some scenic back roads to find idyllic bluebonnet scenery and came across some longhorns in a field.  Next thing I knew, both kids were proudly brandishing the "Hook 'em Horns" sign.

Tummies were grumbling, and the back roads didn't provide an easily accessible bluebonnet posing area, so we took a break for lunch and dessert.  Luckily, we just beat the Listeria hysteria at Blue Bell.  We skipped the tour this time and went right to the sampling area. I'm glad to report that none of us got sick!

Back on the main highway, we found bluebonnets!  The wildflowers were pretty spectacular this year!  We enjoyed them all the way to Houston.