Meet-Up with Friends in Waco

Until yesterday we have been having warm, beautiful fall weather. Yesterday, however, dawned with a vengeance, throwing sheets of rain at us, and chilling us with 40 degree temperatures and wind. But this weather didn't keep me from a pre-arranged meet-up with friends in Waco.

 Bob Hagan (JDHS class of 66) and Sue Dean Hagan (JDHS class of 67 - whom I have known since 3rd grade), who live in Washington state, have been visiting Texas kinfolk, and wanted to come to Waco to see Magnolia Market at "the Silos." This is the beautiful home decor market operated by Chip and Joanna Gaines, who have put Waco on the map with their TV series, Fixer Upper.

Driving up there in the morning was challenging, with terrible visibility because of the weather. But I got there safely and on time. After touring Magnolia Market, we spent a long time together, lunching at a nearby BBQ spot and catching up on the events of the past 50-plus years.

After lunch we stopped by the old historic suspension bridge, built in 1870 to drive cattle over the Brazos River on their way up the Chisholm Trail. Lining the street, on both sides of the bridge are beautiful bronze statues of longhorn cattle, the trail boss on his horse and some cowboys.

Sadly, that cold north wind brought our sightseeing to an end rather quickly, and we parted ways around 2:00. The drive home was much easier, for the heavy rains had stopped.

Thanks for thinking of me and arranging this meet-up, Sue and Bob, and may you have a wonderful Christmas and a safe trip back home.