Saturday, March 5, 2011

From N.O. we headed west towards Avery Island, LA to the home of Tabasco.  It was a much smaller operation than we had thought it would be but we took the tour and did a tasting afterward.  For everyone who thought Tabasco flavored ice cream would be delicious, I'll let you down easy.  It was terrible, but Tabasco soy sauce was a winner. 



We escaped Louisiana and headed for the Big Thicket National Preserve in Texas.  The preserve is spread out along several creeks and rivers.  We decided to do an overnight trip on Village Creek near Slisbee.  The people at Eastex Canoe helped us figure out a game plan and provided good info.  The area is unusual for its biodiversity (they have 3 of the 4 carnivorous plants) and the creek has huge white sand beaches.  Although the area was not as remote as we had hoped for, it was a really nice paddle and Ron taught me the basics of fly fishing.  We were provided additional good info upon being picked up regarding the local humane society.  There is no humane society but people drop off their pets at the boat launch.  The dogs get a styrofoam container of kibbles and the cats have some wooden/trash bag structures in the trees so the dogs don't eat them.  People who want a dog/cat swing by the boat launch and pick them up.  All cats and dogs present looked happy and well fed.

 

Continuing the trek across Texas, we stopped in Fredericksburg as recommended by my parents.  We had fabulous homemade ice cream and did some wine and beer tastings.  Our one purchase from this German town in Texas was made by the Amish made.  We are going to brave the wind and cold and book it to west Texas today.