Oct 2

We had made plans to go to San Antonio today with Mike & Carlyn Drew. We have known they for some time. They are full time RV'ers for over 9 years. We got away about 10am and got to downtown San Antonio and found a parking lot and the last handicapped spot right next to the street. We got into the Alamo before noon and was very much impressed with the displays that they had inside the Alamo, many of the weapons that were used and several books and letters that had been written by the more famous of the Alamo defenders, Jim Bowie, David Crockett, etc. They also had all of the names on bronz plaques of those that defended the Alamo. It was interesting to see tht many of the defenders came from the midwest and eastern states as well as from England, Ireland and several Eruopean countries. We also watched a 15 min. show made by the History Channel on the Alamo.
It makes you wonder if there are enough brave young Americans that would fight for their country like these, some 200 did, even knowing that they were outnumbered by some 16,000 Mexican soldiers. I know there are many of my generation that have enough patriotism to fight to the end for their country and their faith, but that does not seem to be so important to the younger ones. Society todays seems to be interested in what their government can do for them and not so interested in what they can do for themselves and their country.
A visit to the Alamo is very sobering when you consider the challenges of life at that time and the willingness to fight for what you believe in, as these few men did.
The Alamo (shrine) is owned and maintained by the Daughters of the American Revolution, solely by contributions and sales of items at the facility.
After we finished touring the Alamo, we found our way to the River Walk area. It has really changed since we were there some 20 years ago or so. There are restaurants all along the waterway with only a walk 4-5ft wide. Some areas you actually go through the outside dining area where there are tables along the water. A very beautiful and cool place as it is mostly shaded with Live Oak and Cypress trees. We took the boat tour of the area, only $5.00 for Seniors and only room for 2 wheelchairs, no scooters. Our boat Captain was very knowledgeable and pointed out many of the interesting things about the River Walk and the area. He even stopped the boat to point out a very rare bird that they seldom see along the River Walk. A very interesting and relaxing time that lasted about 30 minutes. After the boat ride we continued along the river and finally took an elevator up to street level and found our way back to the van and headed out to LaVernia, TX to pick up some mail and then back to Hondo. A very enjoyable day and one we will reflect on the rest of our lives.